7 Different Types of Wine in Kenya and Prices
In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the world of wine in Kenya, exploring the different types available and providing insights into their characteristics and flavor profiles.
From reds to whites, rosés to sparkling wines, fortified wines to non-alcoholic options, we will cover it all.
Additionally, we will provide tips on wine tasting, buying, and storage, as well as highlight the wine tourism opportunities and health benefits associated with wine consumption.
The growing popularity of wine in Kenya
Before we talk about the types of wine in Kenya, we gotta appreciate the entire industry!
I mean, the wine industry in Kenya has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity over the years.
And as more people develop a taste for wine, it has become a symbol of sophistication and elegance.
Wine consumption is no longer limited to special occasions but has become a part of everyday life for many Kenyans.
Here are popular types of wines in Kenya
- white wines
- rose wines
- non-alcoholic wines
- port wines
- vermouth
- sparkling wines
- champagnes
- red wines
- fortified wine
Types Red Wine in Kenya
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Shiraz / Syrah
- Merlot
- Malbec
- Pinot Noir
- Pinotage
- zinfandel
- Baronne
1. Cabernet Sauvignon
Characteristics and flavor profile
Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its boldness and depth, offers a full-bodied experience with rich dark fruit flavors such as blackcurrant and blackberry.
It often exhibits notes of tobacco, cedar, and spices, with a firm tannin structure and a long, lingering finish.
2. Merlot
Characteristics and flavor profile
Merlot is a medium-bodied wine with a smooth and velvety texture.
It offers a delightful combination of ripe red fruit flavors such as plum and cherry, along with hints of herbs, chocolate, and sometimes a touch of oak.
It is known for its approachability and softer tannins compared to other red wines.
3. Shiraz/Syrah
Characteristics and flavor profile
Shiraz/Syrah, a dark and intense red wine, boasts bold flavors of blackberry, plum, and black pepper, often accompanied by hints of smoked meat, licorice, and spices.
It has a full-bodied nature and is known for its robust tannins and a long, peppery finish.
Prices of Red wine in Kenya
| Product | Price | Alcohol content (ABV) | Country of origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| B&G cuvee speciale nature sweet red | Ksh 2,000 | 12% | France |
| versus sweet red | Ksh 1,430 | 8.5% | South Africa |
| robertson winery sweet red | Ksh 1,349 – Ksh 2,050 | 8% | South Africa |
| four cousins sweet red | Ksh 2,100 – Ksh 1,200 | 9.5% | South Africa |
| 4th street red sweet | Ksh 1,199 – Ksh 2,000 | 12% | South Africa |
| asconi kagor lux | Ksh 1,650 | 12% | Moldova |
| Dragons Back Mountain Medium Sweet Red | Ksh 1,650 | 13.5% | South Africa |
| carlo rossi red sweet | Ksh 1,400 – Ksh 2,400 | 9% | America |
| crema nobile cioccolata | Ksh 2,000 | 14% | Germany |
| pierre marcel sweet red | Ksh 1,700 – Ksh 2,500 | 11% | France |
Types of White Wine in Kenya
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Chenin Blanc
- Riesling
- Pinot Gris
- Pinot Grigio
- Moscato
1. Sauvignon Blanc
Characteristics and flavor profile
Sauvignon Blanc is a zesty and refreshing white wine with vibrant acidity.
It is known for its herbaceous and citrusy aromas, often reminiscent of grapefruit, lime, and passion fruit.
On the palate, it offers crisp flavors and a clean, lively finish.
2. Chardonnay
Characteristics and flavor profile
Chardonnay, a versatile white wine, can range from light and crisp to rich and buttery, depending on the winemaking style.
It often exhibits flavors of apple, pear, and tropical fruits, with notes of vanilla and toasty oak from barrel aging.
3. Chenin Blanc
Characteristics and flavor profile
Chenin Blanc, a versatile and aromatic white wine, offers a wide range of flavor profiles.
It can be dry or off-dry, showcasing flavors of green apple, pear, honey, and sometimes floral notes.
And often has a crisp acidity that balances its natural sweetness.
Types of Rosé Wine in Kenya
1. Rosé winemaking process
Rosé wines are made from red grape varietals, but the winemaking process involves limited skin contact, resulting in a lighter color and fruit-forward character.
The grapes are gently pressed, and the juice is allowed brief contact with the grape skins to extract the desired color and flavors.
2. Dry Rosé
Characteristics and flavor profile
Dry rosé wines are known for their vibrant acidity and refreshing nature.
They offer a spectrum of flavors, including red berries, citrus, and sometimes floral notes.
Dry rosé wines in Kenya are typically crisp, light-bodied, and perfect for warm weather enjoyment.
3. Sweet Rosé
Characteristics and flavor profile
Sweet rosé wines exhibit a touch of residual sugar, giving them a gentle sweetness.
They often feature flavors of ripe berries, watermelon, and floral notes, with a balanced acidity that prevents them from being overly cloying.
Here is a simple list showing Rose wine brands in Kenya and their prices:
- 4th Street Sweet Rose 750ml @ Ksh 1,200
- 4th Street Sweet Rose 1.5 litres @ Ksh 2,200
- 4th Street Sweet Rose 5 litres @ Ksh 3,500
- Four Cousins Sweet Rose 750ml @ Ksh 1,200
- Four Cousins Sweet Rose 1.5 litres @ Ksh 2,200
- Arbormist Zinfandel Sweet Rose 750ml @ Ksh 1,700
- Namaqua Sweet Rose 5 litres @ Ksh 3,500
- Leleshwa Rose 750ml @ Ksh 1,200
- Nederburg Rose 750ml @ Ksh 2,000
- Overmeer Sweet Rose 5 litres @ Ksh 3,500
- Robertson Winery Rose 1.5 litres @ Ksh 2,200
- Orange River Cellars Sweet Rose 5 litres @ Ksh 3,500
- Mateus Sweet Rose 750ml @ Ksh 2,700
- Fragolino Rose Sparkling Wine 750 ml @ Ksh 2,000
Types of Sparkling Wine in Kenya
1. Champagne
Characteristics and flavor profile
Champagne, the most renowned sparkling wine, is characterized by its fine and persistent bubbles.
It offers a range of flavors, including green apple, citrus, toast, and brioche, with a refreshing acidity and a complex, yeasty finish.
2. Prosecco
Characteristics and flavor profile
Prosecco, a sparkling wine from Italy, is known for its fresh and fruity character.
It showcases flavors of green apple, pear, and peach, with floral and honeyed notes.
Prosecco is typically lighter in body and has a slightly sweeter profile compared to Champagne.
3. Cava
Characteristics and flavor profile
Cava, a sparkling wine from Spain, is crafted using the traditional method, similar to Champagne.
It exhibits flavors of citrus fruits, green apple, and sometimes a touch of almond. Cava offers a crisp acidity and a lively effervescence.
Types of Fortified Wine in Kenya
1. Port
Characteristics and flavor profile
Port is a fortified wine produced in Portugal’s Douro Valley.
It is typically rich, sweet, and full-bodied, offering flavors of dark berries, chocolate, caramel, and spices.
Port often has a velvety texture and a long, warming finish.
2. Sherry
Characteristics and flavor profile
Sherry is a fortified wine from Spain’s Sherry Triangle region.
It comes in various styles, ranging from dry and crisp to sweet and luscious.
Sherry offers an array of flavors, including nuts, dried fruits, caramel, and spices, with a wide range of complexity.
Non-alcoholic wine in Kenya
This is another one of the most popular types of wine in Kenya.
Non-alcoholic wines are an alternative for those who prefer to enjoy the flavors and experience of wine without the alcohol content.
These wines are made using various methods, such as vacuum distillation, to remove or minimize alcohol while preserving the flavors and aromas of the original wine.
Wine Tasting Tips
#1. Proper wine tasting techniques
To fully appreciate and evaluate wine, it is important to follow proper wine tasting techniques.
These include observing the wine’s appearance, swirling to release aromas, sniffing to identify the aromatics, sipping to experience the flavors, and assessing the wine’s finish and overall balance.
#2. How to pair wine with food
Pairing wine with food can enhance both the dining experience and the wine’s flavors.
Understanding the basic principles of wine and food pairing, such as matching intensity, complementing flavors, and considering regional pairings, can help create harmonious combinations.
#3. Tips for storing and serving wine
Proper storage and serving conditions are crucial to maintaining the quality of wine.
Tips for storing wine include keeping it in a cool, dark place, storing it horizontally to keep the cork moist, and avoiding temperature fluctuations.
When serving wine, consider appropriate glassware, serving temperatures, and decanting for certain wines.
Wine Buying Guide in Kenya
A. Factors to consider when buying wine
When buying wine, several factors should be considered, such as:
- Personal preferences
- Occasion
- Budget
- Food pairing options.
Understanding these factors can help guide wine enthusiasts in making informed decisions and selecting wines that suit their preferences and requirements.
B. Where to buy wine in Kenya
In Kenya, wine can be purchased from various sources, including local wine shops, supermarkets, online retailers, and winery cellar doors.
Exploring these options allows wine enthusiasts to discover a diverse range of wines and access expert advice from knowledgeable staff.
C. Understanding wine labels and vintages
Wine labels provide valuable information about the wine, including the grape varietals, region of origin, vintage year, and production details.
Understanding how to decipher wine labels and interpret vintage variations can assist in making informed choices and exploring different wine styles.
Wine Tourism in Kenya
A. Wine regions and vineyards to visit
Kenya offers unique wine tourism opportunities, with picturesque wine regions and vineyards to explore.
The Rift Valley, Naivasha, and Nairobi regions are home to notable wineries that welcome visitors for tours, tastings, and immersive wine experiences.
B. Wine events and festivals in Kenya
Wine events and festivals provide a platform to celebrate and showcase Kenya’s wine culture.
From wine tastings and food pairings to wine auctions and live entertainment, these events offer a vibrant and interactive way to engage with the local wine scene.
C. Wine tasting tours and experiences
Wine tasting tours and experiences allow wine enthusiasts to delve into Kenya’s wine offerings while enjoying breathtaking landscapes and vineyard visits.
Whether joining a guided tour or designing a personalized itinerary, these experiences provide an immersive exploration of Kenya’s wine destinations.
Health Benefits of Wine
a. Moderate wine consumption and health
Moderate wine consumption, when incorporated into a balanced lifestyle, has been associated with potential health benefits.
It may contribute to heart health, improved cognitive function, and overall well-being.
However, it is important to note that moderation is key, and individual factors should be considered.
b. Antioxidants and heart health
Wine, particularly red wine, contains antioxidants such as resveratrol, which may have cardio-protective effects.
These antioxidants can help reduce the risk of certain cardiovascular conditions when consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
c. Potential health risks of excessive wine consumption
While moderate wine consumption can have potential health benefits, excessive alcohol intake can lead to negative health consequences.
It is crucial to be aware of the risks associated with excessive wine consumption, such as addiction, liver damage, and increased risk of certain diseases.
Recap of the different types of wine in Kenya
Kenya offers a diverse range of wines, from rich and robust reds to crisp and refreshing whites, elegant rosés, sparkling wines, and fortified options.
Exploring the different types allows wine enthusiasts to discover the unique flavors and characteristics offered by Kenyan wineries.
As the wine industry continues to thrive in Kenya, there has never been a better time to explore and enjoy the world of wine.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, Kenya’s wine scene offers a wealth of experiences and flavors waiting to be discovered.
So raise a glass, savor the journey, and embark on a wine adventure in Kenya.
Cheers🥂!
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