Granite Chenin Blanc 2019

Provenance

Private Client

Critics Ratings

'The 2019 Granite is certainly classically proportioned displaying all the intense liquid minerality, crushed gravel and granitic spice that is so typical of the finest terroir wines grown on ancient decomposed granitic soils. With this minerality come layer upon layer of complex dried green herbs, green apple bon bon rock candy, crunchy white peach and salty, briney notes of a Cape west coast sea breeze. But unlike some previous vintages, this wine not only displays an incredibly piercing nervous acidity, picante white citrus and crunchy green fennel notes, it also impresses with an unbelievably expressive glycerol palate concentration with intricate notes of quince, greengage, rock salt and pear puree. With one of the highest total acidities yet registered for this cuvee, combined with its mind blowing depth of fruit, this is going to make Chenin collectors shiver with excitement. Drink from release and enjoy this wine's evolution over 20+ years.' - Greg Sherwood MW, 97+/100 (Aug 2020)

'"The hardest wine to make," says Andrea Mullineux of this Chenin Blanc from a nutritionpoor vineyard on the Kasteelbeg. But the effort is certainly worth it. Showing aromas of white flowers and gunflint, it has amazing focus, salinity and depth with linear acidity and notes of green apple, kitchen spices and umami. 2021-27' - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2020, 96/100

'Grapes for this wine come from a 43-year-old vineyard. A floral top note before citrus, peach and a hint of spice, while the palate has a great core of fruit, punchy acidity and a deeply savoury finish - pure and energetic.' - Christian Eedes, Decanter.com, 95/100 (Feb 2021)

'Amongst oldest vineyards in Paardeberg, deep soils allow dryland farming, minimal stress. Complex layers, grapefruit & almond in 2017, more minerality & saline acidity than 2016, shows unwavering refinement, assurance; chenin excellence.' - Platter's SA Wine Guide 2019, 4.5* (93/100)

'Instantly impressive, the 2019 Granite Chenin Blanc begins with floral and dusty citrus blossom elements before offering up fantastically balanced citrus and mineral appeal. Medium-bodied, the wine possesses terrific action on the palate with succulent acidity and a frame of seductive mineral tension that is both food-friendly and slightly phenolic. The wine unfolds across the mid-palate and somersaults in the mouth before offering a long, textural finish that is absolutely stunning. Bravo! My problem will be trying to keep my hands off this bottle if I see it in the cellar.' - Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate, 93/100 (Jun 2022)

'The 2019 Chenin Granite is clean and focused on the nose with apple blossom, yellow plum and honeysuckle scents. Its initial bashfulness soon gives way to a louder voice. The palate is taut and focused on the entry, and delivers orange peel, marmalade and hints of stem ginger and dried honey toward the waxy-textured finish. Give this 2-3 years in bottle because there is substance here, and it has a lot to give.' - Neal Martin, Vinous, 92+/100 (Apr 2021)