The Beauty of Balance
The Alvi’s Drift Signature Chenin Blanc sits perfectly between dry and off-dry. It’s a lively, fruit-driven wine that balances freshness with just a hint of natural sweetness. This delicate equilibrium makes it so versatile and enjoyable for such a wide range of palates.
If you love the clean, refreshing taste of dry white wines, but also appreciate a touch of softness, this is the wine for you.
What ‘Dry’ & ‘Off-Dry’ Really Mean
In wine terms, dry simply means there’s very little or no residual sugar left after fermentation; the yeast has converted almost all of the grape’s natural sugar into alcohol. Off-dry wines, on the other hand, retain a small amount of sugar, giving them a gentle roundness or hint of sweetness.
The Signature Chenin Blanc falls right in the middle of that spectrum: technically dry, but with ripe fruit flavours that create the impression of light sweetness. This is what gives it its charm. Crisp enough to refresh, smooth enough to comfort.
A Taste of Chenin Blanc’s Signature Character
Expect aromas of ripe pear, melon, and citrus, followed by a palate that’s bright and zesty, yet softly textured. The finish is clean, juicy, and satisfying – proof that a wine doesn’t have to be bone-dry to feel refined.
This style is distinctively South African: fruit-forward, generous, and beautifully balanced. It’s part of what makes Chenin Blanc such a versatile and enduring favourite.
Why This Balance Matters
By walking the line between dry and off-dry, our Signature Chenin Blanc becomes incredibly food-friendly. It’s refreshing enough for light salads or seafood, yet rounded enough to complement spicy or savoury dishes.
It’s the kind of white wine that fits any moment. Easy to enjoy on its own, but with enough personality to elevate a meal.
Crafted for Approachability
Our winemakers achieve this balanced style through cool fermentation and gentle handling, preserving the grape’s natural fruit purity. The result is a fruit-forward Chenin Blanc that reflects both our Scherpenheuvel terroir and the Alvi’s Drift philosophy: quality, balance, and accessibility in every bottle.
It’s a wine that’s honest in character and delicious in every sense.
Dry or Off-Dry? Both.
The Signature Chenin Blanc defies strict categories, and that’s its magic. It’s fresh, elegant, and full of personality, bridging the gap between the precision of a dry white and the charm of a softly off-dry style.
Whether you’re a long-time Chenin Blanc fan or just discovering South African whites, you’ll find this balance both familiar and exciting. The hallmark of our Signature Selection.
