The cool and prolonged 2024 growing season, with no heat spikes, produced wines with a beautifully balanced phenolic structure, a generous palate, and the vibrant freshness characteristic of SCHIST soils under such conditions. The nose opens with enticing aromas of fresh quince, white peach, and subtle lime, leading into a firm, chalky texture on the palate and a bright, zesty finish.

The home of Mullineux, Roundstone Farm, has become synonymous with SCHIST soils, where these Chenin Blanc bush vines flourish due to the well-suited terroir, as well as being consistently sustainably farmed. These rocky soils limit vine size and so the clusters and individual grapes in turn remain smaller with a higher skin to juice ratio. This contributes to the structure of this wine and, with each vintage, mirror the freshness and pure sunshine that define our SCHIST Chenin Blanc.

Natural fermentation in oak barrels then left in barrels, on its lees, until spring, during which time malolactic fermentation has completed. The barrels are racked and blended just before the following vintage and bottled unfiltered. 11 months in 4th fill 225L French oak barrels.

Tasting Notes: The growing season leading up to the 2024 harvest was cool and prolonged, with no heat
spikes. These were conditions that fostered a beautifully balanced phenolic structure, a generous palate, and the vibrant freshness characteristic of SCHIST soils under such circumstances. The nose opens with enticing aromas of fresh quince, white peach, and subtle lime, leading into a firm, chalky texture on the palate and a bright, zesty finish. With an ageing potential of at least 20 years, this Chenin Blanc is best enjoyed decanted, especially in its youth.

Food Pairing: A high-end, Old Vine South African white wine characterized by its firm, chalky texture and bright, zesty acidity. With aromas of fresh quince, white peach, and hints of lime, this wine is best paired with dishes that can match its concentration and structure. Rich Seafood: Due to its depth and texture, it pairs well with buttery lobster, creamy crayfish, kingklip, or seared scallops. Roast Poultry & White Meats: It is an excellent match for roast chicken with herbs, Guinea fowl, or pan-fried veal chops. Pork Dishes: The wine's structural acidity complements rich, fatty foods like roasted pork belly. Cheeses: The wine pairs beautifully with semi-firm and soft, creamy cheeses, such as artisanal goat cheese (chèvre) or Gruyère. Fragrant & Complex Flavours: The wine can handle complex, lightly spiced dishes, making it ideal for Cape Malay curries (like bobotie), or dishes with stone fruit or nutty components.

ANALYSIS: Alc 14% | TA 6.1g/l | pH 3.36 | RS 1.3g/l