Six top South African chenin blancs
Here are six of the better chenin blancs now available. The Reyneke is of particular interest to hardcore chenin fans.
Chenin Blanc 2016, Robertson Winery, South Africa white, $9.30, SAQ #
10754228: This is a superb little chenin blanc — a great example of the grape at a low price. A hint of sweetness adds texture and amps up the aromatics of pineapple and pear. Grape variety: chenin blanc. Residual sugar: 6.1 g/L. Serve at: 8 C. Drink now. Food pairing idea: apéritif, spicy seafood, salads.
Chenin Blanc 2016, Petit, Ken Forrester, South Africa white, $13.55, SAQ #
10702997: Delicate and dry, citrus and apple notes, and with a pretty floral component. Surprisingly textured, but this is all about freshness and acidity. Excellent all-purpose white at a great price. Grape variety: chenin blanc. Residual sugar: 4.2 g/L. Serve at: 8-10 C. Drink now-2018. Food pairing idea: apéritif, lighter fish, cold seafood salads, asparagus.
Chenin Blanc 2016, Secateurs, Badenhorst, South Africa white, $17.30, SAQ
# 12135092: Deliciously fruity. Shows fleshy stone fruits, a rich mid-palate and just a touch of bitterness on the finish, which brings some refreshment. Another great all-around white. Grape variety: chenin blanc. Residual sugar: 3.1 g/L. Serve at: 8-12 C. Drink now-2018. Food pairing idea: apéritif, mussels in cream sauce, scallops.
Chenin Blanc 2016, Kloof Street, Mullineux, South Africa white, $23.30, SAQ
# 12889409: Pretty wine. Lots of fruit, orange-tinged citrus, richly textured, touch of pithy bitterness on the finish. Straightforward and good complexity. One of those wines that can carry you from apéritif to the end of a meal with ease. Grape variety: chenin blanc. Residual sugar: 2 g/L. Serve at: 8-12 C. Drink now2022. Food pairing idea: apéritif, seafood pasta in cream sauce.
Chenin Blanc 2014, Stellenbosch, Reyneke, South Africa white, $26.60, SAQ
# 13123608: Organic. Old vines, aged in old, large barrels. Wonderfully textured, with classic chenin fruit notes of quince and mandarin peel. Salty mineral finish drives you back for more. One of the top chenins I have tasted from South Africa. Grape variety: chenin blanc. Residual sugar: 1.9 g/L. Serve at: 8-12 C. Drink now-2022. Food pairing idea: apéritif, richer fish served with fresh herbs, cold lobster salad. Chenin Blanc 2016, Vieilles Vignes, Bernard Series, Bellingham, South Africa white, $25.10, SAQ # 11154911: Textured and weighty, with a mix of peach and orange. The fruit comes at you in layers, with a delicate minerality. Lengthy. Grape variety: chenin blanc. Residual sugar: 3.3 g/L. Serve at: 8-12 C. Drink now-2021. Food pairing idea: apéritif, blanquette de veau, fish in cream sauce, lobster.