Bottelary is pretty special country when it comes to old-vine Chenin Blanc having given us Radio Lazarus from Alheit, 1947 from Kaapzicht and the Barrel Fermented from Stellenrust. Planted in 1964, this latter vineyard’s age in the year of production is proudly displayed by a badge on the bottle.

The 2023 vintage saw fermentation take place in barrels, of which 16% were new, the process taking two months to complete. Maturation lasted a further five months, 57% in oak and 43% in concrete eggs.

Tasting Notes: Decadent and rich, featuring aromas of orange peel, spice, white peach, and dried apricot. The palate is often characterized by notes of vanilla, toasted nuts, honey, and marmalade, underpinned by a sharp, "tongue-tingling" lime/lemon zest acidity that keeps it balanced. It is a dense, full-bodied white wine that is not overly sweet, but rather full and round with a lasting finish. 

Food Pairing: Pairs exceptionally well with rich, fatty, or creamy dishes such as duck confit, pâtés, risotto, and cream-based pasta or fish dishes. Meats: Duck confit, roast chicken with herbs, or pork belly. Creamy & Rich Seafood: Line fish with cream sauce, grilled salmon, or creamy pasta. Specialty Pairings: Foie gras, pâtés, or risotto. Spiced & Exotic: Thai-inspired dishes with ginger and lime, or lightly spiced prawn curry. Cheeses & Appetizers: Creamy goat's cheese, Brie, Camembert, nutty cheeses like Manchego/Parmesan, and smoked trout

Expressive aromatics of honeysuckle, thatch, quince, yellow peach and pineapple plus some leesy complexity while the palate is succulent with bright acidity and a savoury finish (alc: 13.5%). Rich but not overly sweet, dense but not monolithic, it’s a lot of wine for the relatively modest price. CE’s rating: 94/100.