Neil Pendock: September 2005

For those who say the wine industry is based on greed, profit and special effects, perhaps it's time to revisit the poetry of Rumi.

Neil Pendock: August 2005

If foreign critics think some south african wine is too cheap to be taken seriously, will vergelegen have the last laugh?

Neil Pendock: July 2005

If mathematics can explain the universe, why isn't there a mathematical theory to explain the world of wine?

Neil Pendock: June 2005

Does South Africa need its own Robert Parker Jr? Or is the public sick of all knowing noses... By Neil Pendock

Concept Wines: Neil Pendock

Where is SA's champion? Neil Pendock

Australia's international success was made easier by the sustained critical acclaim for wines such as Penfold's Grange. California has made its mark with wines such as Opus One and the "cult wine" - Screaming Eagle. Much of these wines' status can be attributed to hype, limited availability and outrageous pricing (as well as their quality).

But why has South Africa - with its much vaunted 300 years of winemaking tradition - been unable to produce a single, consistent world beater as yet? Neil Pendock looks at some of the attempts being made.

Conspicuous Consumption

Home comforts most can only dream about; good living taken to the limit. Neil Pendock wouldn't say no to a taste now and then.