The sophistication of Odd Bins

SPENCER Fondaumiere is a sommelier with a deep appreciation of the many flavours of wine.

He is an Association de la Sommellerie Internationale certified sommelier and a qualified chef. He serves as chairperson of the South African Sommelier Association and, in his own words, is a “serial entrepreneur”.

Recently Fondaumiere has taken a keen liking to Checkers’ new range of Odd Bins wines. “The Odd Bins collection produces wines that carry a certain ambiance and sophistication at remarkable value,” said Fondaumiere.

Odd Bins spans a wide range of cultivars and styles, so it generally appeals to a wider audience. Carefully selected and given a unique bin number, the original label is kept secret to ensure the wine remains both affordable and accessible. Each Odd Bins wine is unique and once the bin is sold out, the number is never repeated.

Fondaumiere said he was pleasantly surprised to find some of the wines carried lovely floral notes, subtle undertones of vanilla, hints of spices and “a palate of fresh tropical fruits”.

Fondaumiere offered Weekend Argus a few recommendations on pairing wines and food.

“Odd Bins No 243 Sauvignon Blanc White is a great summer wine. It’s slightly peppery and perfumed with zesty lime and passion fruit. It pairs well with salads and seafood.”

For red wine enthusiasts, Fondaumiere recommended Odd Bins 723 Pinotage Red Wine, with “silky tannins and a smoky back note”.

Fondaumiere co-founded Somm On Call, a company that brings a sommelier to a patron’s home. Somm On Call can curate an at-home tasting from their wine list online or pair the wines to any menu they are provided with. To find out more about Somm On Call or to call a sommelier to your home, go to sommoncall.co.za