2016 Chenin Blanc Reserve
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Tasting notes
80% fermented in barrel (20% new), the rest in foudres and concrete eggs. The oak gives a spicy, creamy, cedary character. Rich, full and creamy and seductive on the palate but has a lovely fresh purity to keep it in shape. The finish is quite oaky at the moment. Needs time. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Gentle and appealing on the nose with a great spine of green honey acidity. Great balance. Seriously South African and distinctive. (JR)
44-year-old vines. Please-all honeyed Chenin on the nose. Crisp and juicy. Very cleverly put together. Far from a natural wine – you could upbraid it for being formulaic, but it’s an awfully successful formula. Long. (JR)
The 2016 Reserve Chenin Blanc, which will be released summer 2017, was slightly deeper in color compared to other vintages. It has a composed bouquet with nectarine, melted wax and dried pineapple scents, a touch of dandelion in the background. The palate is fresh on the entry with crisp acidity. I find more nuance and harmony here compared to the 2015, a delicacy married with intensity in the finish, a tang of clear honey on the aftertaste (although there was no botrytis in the vineyard).