“There’s no question that wine lovers around the world are taking note of South African Chenin Blanc. Our Mediterranean climate is ideal for producing this varietal, and our Chenins can proudly hold their own against the great Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs of the world.” – Alvi van der Merwe

Notes of peach and lemon with hints of honeycomb

Crafted from heritage vineyards, this layered and expressive wine boasts intense aromas of vanilla, spice, and creamy butter. Expect vibrant notes of peach and lemon, perfumed with hints of honeycomb. Medium-bodied and well-balanced, it offers a creamy texture and a lingering aftertaste with a refreshing lime finish. While delicious now, this much-awarded wine also has the potential to mature beautifully for eight years or more.

Soils That Shape Extraordinary Flavour

At Alvi’s Drift, our Chenin Blanc vineyards grow in varied soils, from sandy loam to limestone and shale, and even the hard, red, calcareous dorbank soil for which the Breede River Valley is famous. 

“Each of these different soil types imparts unique flavours to our Chenin Blanc grapes,” Alvi explains. “One of our blocks that I’m particularly excited about is a four-hectare vineyard with underground irrigation, which drastically reduces water usage and creates an ideal environment for root growth. This allows the vines to absorb nutrients from where all the active soil organisms thrive, enhancing the grapes’ flavour enormously.”

Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc Food Pairing Suggestion

This remarkable Chenin Blanc pairs beautifully with creamy fish pie, seafood chowder, chicken Marsala, Brie or chèvre with herbs, roast butternut quiche, Tuscan-style grilled chicken, roast duck, and chicken korma curry.

“We’ve been invited as far afield as Norway because people want to taste South African Chenin Blanc,” says Alvi. “I’m really excited about this versatile varietal and the great wines it can bring forth.”