Glen Heatlie The Frontier Grenache Blanc 2022

At the end of 2022, Grenache Blanc was the 27^th most planted variety in South Africa with 158.44ha. Not very much then but it seems to do well under local conditions. It plays a useful role in blends but also makes single-variety wines of character – think The Foundry and Rall.

Joan Heatlie also makes a compelling version, her 2022 currently available at R320 a bottle. Grapes from a Piekenierskloof planted in 2010 at an altitude of 720m above sea level, it was fermented and matured for nine months in an older large-format barrel. A 7% portion of Swartland Chenin Blanc is added before bottling for extra interest.

Peach, naartjie, earth, a slight leesy note plus spice on the nose while the palate is well balanced with good fruit concentration matched by tangy acidity, the finish gently savoury. Delivers a lot of flavour despite an alcohol of just 12.52%. Only 596 bottles produced.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

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