This wine is impressively precise and concentrated, with flavors of pears, yellow apples, tinned pineapples, whetstone, and smoke, complemented by a clear, linear acidity reminiscent of Alsatian Riesling. The Chenin Blanc grapes are sourced from the Rotsbank vineyard in Paardeberg, where roots grow through a rocky shelf, producing concentrated fruit. Post-harvest, grapes are cooled, whole bunch pressed, and fermented in old foudres. The wine is left on ferment lees for 12 months and bottled with a minimal sulphur addition.

Tasting Notes: This 2024 Rotsbank bottling displays gunflint and seaweed aromas with tropical granadilla secondary flavours. There is a line of green tea, and the tannin dries out at the end of the palate. This year is marked by incredible length and elegance on the palate. It is one of the wines that can be slightly reduced and shy on release, and we recommend that the wine be allowed to aerate if opened early. It is a very linear and firm style of Chenin.

Food Pairing: Oysters, crayfish, scallops, or lemon sole. Grilled game fish, sashimi, or salt-baked fish. Roast chicken or turkey, particularly when accompanied by acidic or herbal sauces. Because this wine is very restrained and firm, it benefits from aeration if opened early, or it can be cellared for over a decade

From Swartland Chenin Blanc. Matured for 12 months in cask. The nose opens with waxy, earthy notes before giving way to citrus, peach, pineapple and a touch of honeysuckle. The palate is rich and layered with assertive acidity and a savoury, grippy finish. Powerful, idiosyncratic and firmly structured – demanding at present but should benefit from time in bottle. Alc: 13.5%. CE’s rating: 95/100.

ANALYSIS: ALC 13.5% | TA 6.1g/L | pH 3.02 | RS 1.8g/L