Delaire Graff Chenin Blanc Swartland Reserve 2015

Got grunt.

The 2014 vintage of Chenin Blanc Swartland Reserve from Delaire Graff just won gold at this year’s Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show so what of the much heralded 2015 vintage?

From 30– to 40-year-old vines, grapes were fermented and matured in French oak, 60% in 400-litre barrels and 40% in 2 500-litre foudre, no batonage or MLF.

On the nose, honeysuckle, citrus, white and yellow peach, a hint of apricot (the latter not a descriptor used much anymore as the trend towards earlier picking increasingly holds sway). Pure and fresh on the palate – great concentration and very tight. Not particularly “Swartland” but more a very good “international white wine”. Possesses power (abv 14%) without being at all thuggish. Price: R160 a bottle.

#WinemagRating: 93/100.  

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