PROTEA CHENIN BLANC 2026

A nettle and herbaceous element support the more typical grapefruit aromatics of this wine. Lively, tangy, bright and zingy, its vivacious nature is immediately obvious. After that first impression, the taut succulence and zip of lemon and grapefruit flavour come through. Agile with a lean, willowy structure, there is a wet pebble and flint nuance that adds to its outgoing character. An obvious crowd pleaser, it is nonetheless balanced and fresh with a taut, well-defined finish.

A subtle floral perfume and chamomile aroma adds depth to the nose of stone fruit with a shy, green foliage nuance as well. A confident and structured palate which immediately displays ripe, creamy flavour yet is also fresh, bright and lively. Oodles of nectarine and dried apricot with a riper mango nuance lending a tropicality to the flavour array. The rounded, creamy breadth shows lees character that adds both persistence and interest. Well-formed and elegant with a lovely succulent tang all the way to the finish, it will reward patience.

Appealing cherry and spice with light tendrils of smoke on the bouquet. The palate delivers more of the cherry typicity, dark and inviting, with inky depth offset by succulence. Composed and balanced with that lively acid freshness, generous fruit flavour and structure adding to its appeal. Pliable and supple, it has well integrated fine dry tannins in support. Long and rewarding.

Citrus and stonefruit with honeydew melon aromas. Gently ripe and rounded, the palate is broad and appealing with its melon, lemon and grapefruit zest countered by the vivd stone fruit flavours. Nimble and vivacious with crisp, tangy acid to balance the fruit vibrancy. Light-bodied and fun, it’s easy to enjoy but not without a serious side, as evidenced by the lees note and subtle flinty, almost mineral, tail.