Brookdale Chenin Blanc 2021 Bottle size: 750ml

‘Grapes from vineyards planted in 1985. Harvest involved four separate pickings. Matured in mostly older 500-litre barrels before being transferred to foudre, total time before bottling 20 months. Citrus, peach, a touch of hay and some waxy character. Terrifically concentrated and thick textured but not short of freshness – on the contrary, for all the fruit weight, there’s also big acidity. Layers of flavour, the finish intensely savoury. Alc: 13%.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 93/100

‘From vines planted in 1985, the 2021 Chenin Blanc Old Vine is in a very wind-exposed micro-climate that naturally hedges the vine, whole bunch pressed, a slightly dirty rack, aged for nine months in 500-liter oak and then 11 months in 2,000-liter Stockinger barrels. It has quite an intense bouquet with lemon thyme and orange pith, blossoming in the glass, very well-defined and pure. The palate is very well-balanced, with an irresistible entry and fine delineation. It is taut, focused, and slightly tangy, with hints of marmalade, quince and pithy on the finish. This is superb. 13% alcohol. 2024-2035’ – Neal Martin, Vinous, 93/100

‘Ginger spice and sourdough unfold on the nose, laced with pineapple freshness, peach tea and a hint of vanilla pod. Richly textured, weighty stone fruit coalesces with vibrant, tropical nuances. On the mid-palate apricot tanginess balances creamy, salted lees. The acidity is sewn right through, fine and mineral, along a seam of subtle spice. Quince, peaches and poaching pears simmer to the finish, echoing long and resonant with fruitful generosity.’ – Winemaker