L’Avenir (South Africa) Chenin Blanc 2005
The South African estate of L’Avenir was purchased by the ambitious Michel Laroche of Chablis in October 2005. At a recent tasting of their range the wines were outstanding, but I have chosen this dry-farmed Chenin from a 30-year-old vineyard because it shows what marvellous potential this grape has in the Cape when grown and handled carefully. It has a lovely nose: rich, mealy, with plenty of nutty and apple fruit and a sense of depth. On the palate there’s an immediate sweetness, with plenty of racy, crisp pear and apple and a little hint of more tropical ripeness. Lovely acidity is crisp but integrated and supportive. Beautiful stuff. 7.49, Great Grog, Andrew Chapman, everywine.co.uk, Wine Raks.
