2023 Carinus Rooidraai Chenin Blanc

This is top-shelf stuff from one of the Cape’s best winemaking partnerships. The vineyard’s no joke - planted in 1981 on red granite in the Swartland, dry-grown and properly looked after. The fruit goes to Lukas van Loggerenberg, who handles it with his usual calm confidence. No bells and whistles, just early picks, gentle work, and ten months in old oak.

It’s not a loud wine, but it’s got presence. There’s citrus and dried herbs, maybe a bit of potpourri if you’re paying attention, and a salty edge that keeps everything tight. It starts out a bit shy, but give it a moment and it stretches out beautifully - long, dry, and incredibly moreish. The acidity’s sharp and carries the whole thing with ease.

This is clean, focussed Chenin made with serious intent. No flashiness, no fat - just balance, drive, and the kind of quiet power that sneaks up on you. Easily one of the smartest buys for lovers of proper, old-vine South African white.