Joostenberg (South Africa) Chenin Blanc 2006
I have to say I’m a huge fan of South African Chenin Blanc when it is made in this style with the crisp, naturally refreshing character of the appley Chenin tempered by some weight and texture from a touch of lees and barrel ageing. In fact, the barrel component of this wine from the Paarl is Viognier, 6% of which is blended with Chenin from 23-year-old bush vines. The nose is a lovely melange of crisp orchard fruit, oatmeal and honeysuckle, with tiny nuances of summer flowers and a very delicate spiciness. On the palate there’s a full, sweet attack of very ripe apple fruit, that is quite rolling and expansive, with touches of ripe melon and apricot. But a fine, decisive acidity pushes through the mid-palate, along with a warming touch of vanilla, to leave this tangy and fresh, yet with a textural quality and plenty of fruit. Beautifully done. 8.50, Berry Bros & Rudd, or 7.65 by the case.
