Mullineux Old Vines White 2015

Massive attack.

Dry and early was 2015 as a vintage in the Swartland and in the case of the White Mullineux 2015, this appears to have led to extra fruit concentration with maybe a little freshness lost relative to previous vintages (read 2014 review here).

A blend of 73% Chenin Blanc, 13% Clairette Blanche, 7% Viognier and 7% Semillon Gris, fermentation occurred spontaneously before 11 months maturation in third- and fourth-fill barrel plus one new 2 000-litre foudre.

The nose is wonderfully complex with notes of apple, stone fruit, naartjie, orange rind plus spice, earth, marzipan and some yeasty complexity. The palate is rich and smooth textured with moderate acidity and a slightly grippy quality to the finish. It all makes for a big but super-interesting glass of wine. Wine Cellar price: R265 a bottle.

Editor’s rating: 93/100.

Find our South African wine ratings database here.