Synonym is the new name for our Gabriëlskloof Chenin Blanc, part of the Gabriëlskloof Range. We chose this name because Chenin Blanc is synonymous with South African wine: it's our country in a glass. Whilst crafted with the same attention to detail as our Landscape Series, Synonym is designed to be approachable and enjoyed upon release, showing the pure expression of Chenin from vineyards in Bot River, Swartland and Elgin.

The 2025 vintage was marked by a late wet winter and ideal spring conditions, fostering vigorous vineyard growth. Challenging weather during early flowering reduced yields, concentrating the fruit. Summer arrived mild and dry before hot conditions accelerated our harvest timing.

All fruit was whole-bunch pressed and 100% wild-fermented. Half was fermented in stainless steel tanks, with the remaining half fermented in barrel. The wine spent seven months on its lees before bottling.

Tasting Notes: A concentrated expression showing yellow citrus, green papaya, white pear and white floral notes on the nose. The palate is concentrated and weighty, with lemon curd, Granny Smith apple and loquat alongside mouth-coating honeycomb, cut through by the freshness and crunch of watermelon rind.

Food Pairing: A concentrated white wine that pairs exceptionally well with rich poultry dishes like lemon-thyme roast chicken, premium seafood such as butter-seared scallops or grilled garlic prawns, and creamy vegetarian mains like wild mushroom risotto. Its complex layers of lemon curd and honeycomb perfectly match the savory depth and sweetness of these foods, while its bright, crisp acidity effortlessly cuts through heavy fats, butter, and cream to cleanse the palate. To maximize this pairing, pair the wine with nutty cheeses like Gruyère or mature Gouda, but avoid aggressive chili spices or overly sweet sauces that could overpower its delicate, layered fruit notes.