Description
Ian Naude is a bit of a legend when it comes to tracking down South Africa’s heritage vineyards. He isn't interested in cellar tricks; he’s all about these gnarly old bush vines that have spent decades digging deep into the dirt. The 2021 vintage is already being called a once-in-a-generation year for South African whites, and this bottle is right at the front of the pack.
These ancient, low-yielding sites produce a natural concentration you just can't fake. Because the growing season was unusually cool and long, the fruit hit this perfect sweet spot of ripeness without losing any of its trademark zip. Ian keeps his hands off the winemaking because he wants that "magic dust" from the old wood to do the talking.
The result isn't built on oak, but on a "nervy" core of energy and crystalline purity. It’s harmonious and tightly wound, showing the kind of focus that only comes from deep roots. It’s the sort of wine that stays out of its own way, letting the heritage of the site take center stage.
On the nose, it’s all pear puree, white peach, and a distinct wet granite minerality. The palate is where it really kicks off, though - packed with tart yellow peach and zesty green apple. It has a waxy, textured feel but remains piercingly fresh. This is a benchmark Chenin that’ll drink beautifully now but has the bones to sit in the cellar for another twenty years if you can wait.
97 points
"Few new wine releases from Ian Naude have created as much excitement as the new Old Vine Chenin Blanc from the 2021 vintage... Like all truly great wines, the 2021 achieves all its intensity and commanding focus with a supremely unobtrusive elegance, crystalline purity and harmonious synchronicity making this one of Ian’s greatest Chenin Blanc releases to date."
- Greg Sherwood MW (Wine Magazine South Africa)
| Price Bracket | $51 to $100 |
| Type | White |
| Body | Full Bodied |
| Variety | Chenin Blanc |
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | Stellenbosch |
| Reviewed By |
Wine Magazine |
| Critic Score |
97 |
| Alcohol | 12% |
| Size | 750ml |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| Closure | Cork |
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