Editor's Choice: February 2009
Looking for a personal recommendation? Christian Eedes discusses the wines
that particularly stood out for him during this month's blind tastings.
VALUE CHENIN BLANC
★ ★ ★ ★ FOUR STARS
Tukulu 2008
APPROXIMATE RETAIL PRICE: R38
Grapes from 14-year-old bushvines in Papkuilsfontein, Darling. 30% of the juice was barrel fermented in new French oak and left on the lees for two months. Lime and some waxiness on the nose and palate. Great purity and freshness make for a very elegant wine.
CE's score: 19/20.
INVESTMENT CHENIN BLANC
★ ★ ★ THREE STARS
De Trafford 2008
CELLAR PRICE: R120
Winemaker David Trafford won the Challenge in 2000 and again in 2002 (jointly with Teddy Hall) so his capability with Chenin is well established. Grapes from vineyards ranging in age from 20 to 35 years in Helderberg, Stellenbosch. Wild yeast fermentation in barrel, 20%
new. Hint of oak on the nose. Rich and full on the palate, with tangy acidity lending balance.
CE's score: 16/20.
VALUE CHENIN BLANC
★ ★ ★ ★ FOUR STARS
Welbedacht Bushvine Barrel Fermented 2005
PICK N PAY PRICE: R55
Grapes from 30-year-old bushvines in Wellington. Fermented and matured for seven months in 65% new and 35% second-fill barrels. Bruised apple and lots of leesy character on the nose. Juicy fruit and bright acidity on the palate. Layers of flavour including citrus, tropical
fruit and spice.
CE's score: 16.5/20.
INVESTMENT CHENIN BLANC
★ ★ ★ THREE STARS
The FMC Forrester Meinert Chenin 2007
CELLAR PRICE: R240
Both the 2002 and 2004 vintages of this wine have achieved WINE magazine's ultimate accolade of 5 Stars on previous occasion, and it has become a South African benchmark. Usually a rich and ripe style of Chenin, I found the 2007 particularly subtle and elegant. From 40-year-old bushvines in Helderberg, Stellenbosch.
CE's score: 16/20.
