Ken Forrester Chenin Blanc Old Vine Reserve Stellenbosch 2024 750ml

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

The Wine Enthusiast 91 Points | A lovely, silky white, with vivid acidity and a subtle streak of chalky sapidity layered with flavors of yellow apple, pear, lemon meringue and chamomile, plus a rich touch of hazelnut. Refreshing hints of quinine and grapefruit pith make a sweep on the finish. Drink now through 2030. 10,000 cases made, 2,000 cases imported. 

James Suckling 91 Points | This creamy, rounded white has aromas and flavors of baked apples, nectarines, butter and mango crumble. It’s full-bodied, ripe and silky with tasty yellow-fruit character.

Winemaker Description 

Ken Forrester's Reserve Chenin Blanc 2024 exemplifies the estate’s mastery of this South African terroir. Located in Stellenbosch, Ken Forrester Vineyards, established in 1993, is renowned for its dedication to Chenin Blanc—the South African winemaker often referred to as the "King of Chenin."

Their vineyards, situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, benefit from cooling maritime influences and decomposed granite soils.

The 2024 vintage, marked by a warm, dry summer, yields a wine of exceptional vibrancy.

A bright, pale straw hue, the wine releases a perfume of ripe pineapple, honeydew melon, and subtle floral notes. On the palate, it’s rich and textured, with balanced acidity, layers of tropical fruit, and a lingering, mineral-driven finish.

This versatile Chenin Blanc pairs beautifully with seafood, roasted poultry, or creamy cheeses. Its vibrant acidity and layered flavors complement a wide range of culinary experiences.

Memo Summary Notes

• Excellent with grilled prawns or scallops, roast chicken with herbs, butternut squash risotto, and aged goat cheese.