Raats Old Vine Chenin Blanc

This superb Chenin Blanc has garnered top marks and award after award. The grapes come from vines that are 34 years or older. Some of these vines are even still planted in classic bush vines, completely without wiring. This method is ideal for South Africa's warm climate. The Chenin Blanc is planted at a certain altitude, around 250 meters above sea level. This is perfect for adding freshness and tension to the wine. All these elements are evident in this bottle, which is even considered one of South Africa's finest.

The family business Raats

Production is in the hands of a specialist in Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc wines: the Raats winery. While many wineries plant a wide variety of grapes for their wines, Raats has taken a different approach. Cabernet Franc is rarely found in red wines in South Africa. Quite a challenge indeed. But according to this family, the grape varieties are undervalued and much more can be extracted from them. All wines are sourced from the Stellenbosch region. Here, the grapes benefit from South Africa's warm climate, as well as the cool ocean breeze.

The harvest and taste of Old Vine Chenin Blanc

Thirty percent of the wine is fermented and aged in 300-liter French oak barrels to accentuate the soft, lush flavors. Seventy percent is fermented in stainless steel to highlight the fresh acidity and bright citrus aromas. After nine months, these two elements are combined and left on the lees for another seven months before bottling. This superb Chenin Blanc has hints of ripe pear, complex notes of orange, and light spice on the nose. The palate is sensational, long and full with a generous dose of oak aging. This aging has given it the full, robust flavors of spice, white fruit, vanilla, oak, and lime.