Fine South African Chenin Blanc Case

The Thistle & Weed team`s original chenin, from a cool, high-altitude vineyard on the Simonsberg mountain. The plot was planted in 1980, bringing further complexity to the lovely balance of tension and ripe fruit texture.

Lukas van Loggerenberg`s blend of Stellenbosch and Paardeberg fruit aims to reflect chenin in the Western Cape. Vinified in older 500-litre French oak, a natural tension continues long on the palate with touches of citrus pith, hay and thatch.

The Kliprug estate was planted in 1982 and consistently delivers generous, textured fruit supported by a touch of chalky minerality and freshness, here topped with seductive lemon-butter notes.

From a parcel of mature vines yielding small volumes of pristine fruit, this is a concentrated yet refined barrel-fermented chenin with great length on the palate and certain ageing potential. Platter's 5* 2023: 'Noble & stately, 21 (95) maintains illustrious record with impeccable structure & nuance. Natural barrel ferment/10 months on lees in 30% new barrels provide breadth & texture to match voluptuous stonefruit, honey & hazelnut flavours'.

Elegantly honed chenin from a high-altitude vineyard planted in 1960, labelled in tribute to the late Henk Laing who farmed it. 2022 delivered lower alcohol but the wine has plenty of substance, with typical citrus and fynbos aromas.

Sebastian Beaumont`s top chenin. This riper, expressive South African vintage offers generous creamy texture reined in by a core of pithy freshness. The mouthfeel culminates in a long and persistent finish on the palate.