Top Picks from the 2024 Standard Bank Chenin Blanc Challenge
South Africa has become renowned for its exceptional Chenin Blanc, and the 2024 Standard Bank Chenin Blanc Top 10 Challenge reaffirms this position. If you’re looking to expand your wine collection, these top 10 Chenin Blancs should be on your radar. From Stellenbosch to Citrusdal, each bottle represents the best of South African winemaking, showcasing both tradition and innovation.
These top 10 Chenin Blancs from the 2024 Standard Bank Chenin Blanc Top 10 Challenge exemplify the diversity and excellence of South African winemaking. Whether you prefer vibrant, fruit-driven wines or more complex, structured expressions, these Chenins offer something for every palate. Add them to your collection, and savour the best of what South Africa has to offer.
By focusing on highly sought-after varietals like Chenin Blanc, you can optimise your collection and enjoy wines that continue to elevate South Africa’s global reputation.
Here are the top 10 Chenin Blancs that deserve a spot in your cellar:
1. Anthonij Rupert Cape of Good Hope Van Lill Chenin Blanc 2023
- Region: W.O. Citrusdal Mountain
- Price: R290
- Tasting Notes: From unirrigated old vines, this wine offers vibrant acidity with fresh spring flowers and crisp stone fruit. Its pure, clean profile and light phenolic touch provide a beautifully complex experience.
- Why It’s Special: The pristine fruit quality and old vine heritage make it a collector’s gem.
2. Flagstone Paradigm Chenin Blanc Reserve 2023
- Region: W.O. Agter-Paarl
- Price: R286
- Tasting Notes: Bright apricots, melon, and citrus on the nose with a tight, elegant palate. This wine promises great ageing potential due to its well-balanced structure.
- Why It’s Special: Harvested from old bush vines planted in 1979, this wine delivers both intensity and subtlety.
3. Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Chenin Blanc 2023
- Region: W.O. Stellenbosch
- Price: R284
- Tasting Notes: A flinty, struck match introduction leads into a palate of apricot, honeysuckle, and ginger, accented by a touch of vanilla. The chalky mineral finish ensures a lasting impression.
- Why It’s Special: With heritage vineyards and excellent oak integration, this is a collector’s dream.
4. Knorhoek Chenin Blanc 2022
- Region: W.O. Simonsberg-Stellenbosch
- Price: R200
- Tasting Notes: Pineapple, lychee, and citrus flavours dance alongside subtle spices. The oak and fermentation method (foudre, concrete, and barrel) provide a multi-layered complexity.
- Why It’s Special: Single vineyard, 1980-planted vines, and multiple fermentation vessels create a sophisticated, seamless wine.
5. Lievland Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2023
- Region: W.O. Paarl
- Price: R180
- Tasting Notes: Light and elegant, this wine is characterised by its stone fruit, pear, and guava flavours. The crystalline purity and balance make it deliciously drinkable.
- Why It’s Special: A blend of old vineyards from the 1970s and ’80s, this wine offers incredible value for its price.
6. Nabygelegen Rudmatis Chenin Blanc 2022
- Region: W.O. Coastal Region
- Price: R160
- Tasting Notes: Soft mandarin and toffee apple aromas, complemented by a creamy palate with a touch of nutty development. The plush mouthfeel is balanced without being overly sweet.
- Why It’s Special: Its complexity, aged an extra year in bottle, makes it a standout for those who enjoy a bit more depth.
7. Stellenrust Secrets & Lies Chenin Blanc 2023
- Region: W.O. Stellenbosch
- Price: R350
- Tasting Notes: Crisp green and rich yellow stone fruits are balanced with honey and barley sugar, tied together by a touch of ginger and bright acidity.
- Why It’s Special: From a 41-year-old vineyard, this wine is a perfect example of mature vines producing concentrated, well-integrated flavours.
8. Stellenrust (B1) Old Bush Vine Chenin Blanc 2023
- Region: W.O. Stellenbosch
- Price: R350
- Tasting Notes: Potpourri, stone fruit, and quince, layered with hints of lime, vanilla, and toasted pine nuts. Its concentration and vibrancy promise a long life ahead.
- Why It’s Special: With old bush vines at altitude, this wine showcases Stellenbosch’s finest terroir.
9. Stellenrust Next FN Level Old Bush Vine Chenin Blanc 2023
- Region: W.O. Stellenbosch
- Price: R350
- Tasting Notes: A bold and structured Chenin with sundried apricots, lanolin, spice, and chamomile. The pithy, textured finish lingers on the palate.
- Why It’s Special: This ambitious wine brings powerful structure and lasting mineral intensity, ideal for those seeking something bold.
10. Zevenwacht Z Collection Chenin Blanc 2023
- Region: W.O. Polkadraai-Stellenbosch
- Price: R295
- Tasting Notes: Delicate and elegant with a stony, mineral nose and flavours of hard pear, citrus, and white flowers. Its bone-dry, chalky finish makes it perfect for cellaring.
- Why It’s Special: This wine’s light touch and subtlety make it a versatile addition to any collection.
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