Similar to the precision in crafting a fine diamond, Amile Wines offer enthusiasts a meticulously crafted vino experience, a testament to the exquisite touch of the owner, Thabisile Ndlovu.
Born in Umlazi, south-west of Durban, Ndlovu is an artist by nature. As a jewellery designer she wanted to create a wine that involves precision and attention to detail.
The grapes are cultivated in the beautiful Devon Valley in the Cape Winelands. “I chose Stellenbosch because I love the way it is in the morning. It has wet soil and I appreciate the grapes coming from there,” Ndlovu explains.
“I partnered with [a local] farm and branded it. I labelled the wine myself.”
Amile Wines specialise in the production of handcrafted red wines and dry rosé. “The blend is quite a lifestyle and that is what I wanted to create. We are trying to create luxury using 100% African products coming from African soil,” she says.
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Diamonds and wine go well together
The wine holds deep meaning because of Ndlovu’s relationship with her only daughter, the source of inspiration behind both her jewellery line and wine brand.
“My daughter is an only child and my business started from high-end jewellery and then we ventured into wine. We chose wine because of our slogan, ‘From the soil to the palm of your hand’,” she says.
What makes her wine sparkle is impeccable timing and patient dedication. This combination results in a wonderfully smooth finish that pairs seamlessly with a variety of dishes.
“With the grapes, you have to let them mature and keep them in storage in one place so the process is like a pressure. We try to compare the diamond process to the wine process,” she explains.
Summer wine selection
Ndlovu recommends her Rosé 2020 as the perfect summer drink for those looking to treat their taste buds to a medley of succulent fruit flavours. “It has a fruity aroma and is very easy on the mouth… I like wine that has a nice ending. I need the ending to be smooth. This wine pairs well with dessert,” she says.
Her second selection for Faces of Summer is her robust and velvety Cabernet Sauvignon 2020. “It has minty finish with chocolate. It pairs well with steak or even a pasta,” she explains.
As with diamonds, Ndlovu says great care is taken to produce her wines. Everything is chosen and processed before being aged in French oak barrels for a year.
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