Damascene W.O. Swartland Chenin Blanc 2021 Bottle size: 750ml

‘Instantly impressive with notes of sautéed almonds, white peaches and hints of lees, the 2021 Swartland Chenin Blanc, made with natural ambient yeast, shows immense complexity on the nose with aromas of lemon pastry cream and yellow apples. Light to medium-bodied and with 12.7% alcohol, it shows a more petite frame yet maintains an immense level of complexity while offering succulent acidity with a kiss of phenolic bitterness. This Chenin Blanc ends with a long, lingering finish that has me wanting more. Only 2,210 bottles were produced. 2023-2038’ – Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate, 97/100

‘From Perdeberg vineyards on granite. Matured for 11 months in foudre and older oak. A flinty top note before pear, white peach and citrus plus hints of hay and oatmeal on the nose. The palate is supremely elegant and focused – pure fruit matched by a great line of acidty, the finish super-dry.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 96/100

‘This is the second vintage of a Damascene Swartland Chenin Blanc, sourced from two sources on the granite soils of the Paardeberg. Chiselled, focused, nuanced and well balanced, it has notes of oatmeal, lanolin and wet stones, thrilling minerality and a savoury undertone from wild yeast fermentation. 2024-30’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2023, 94/100

‘A blend of two mountainous Swartland vineyards. The wine opens with a burst of crushed apple freshness, white stone and wild flower honey. The aromatics loop outwards towards green pineapple, fresh white peach and pistachio. Stunning mineral purity on the palate has a crystallising effect against a backdrop of lime-chalk and steely acid. White pears, orchard apples, and a touch of mango follow. A spicy fynbos thread runs right down the middle, unfurling into a savoury, dry finish.’ – Winemaker