Patatsfontein Chenin Blanc 2017

Wound up tight.

That the excellent Patatsfontein Chenin Blanc as made by Reneen Borman of Boschkloof comes from a vineyard outside the Klein Karoo town of Montagu is a vivid reminder of just how extensive and diverse the South African winelands are.

The 2017 vintage has recently been released and it’s looking top notch. Matured for 10 months in older oak, the nose shows the merest hint of reduction before pear, white peach and lemon with some potpourri in the background. The palate is pure, fresh with a subtle saline quality to the finish – this vintage is a real slow burner which doesn’t immediately impress you but becomes increasingly enjoyable with time in the glass. Alc: 13.5%. Wine Cellar price: R320 a bottle.

Editor’s rating: 96/100.

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