At a glance

Producer

Ken Forrester

Region

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Grape variety

Chenin Blanc

Wine type

White

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$18-$28 USD

Tasting profile

Ripe stone fruits (peach, apricot), guava, melon, subtle spice, balanced vibrant acidity and silky texture.

Evolution: Over several years, develops honey, baked apple, hay, lanolin/wax, almond, and earthy/mineral complexity.

At peak: From 2026-2028, expect a harmonious blend of fresh fruit, honeyed notes, and lingering minerality; texture becomes creamier.

Structure

Acidity

Crisp to pronounced (one of the hallmarks of old-vine Stellenbosch Chenin Blanc)

Tannins

None (white wine; focus is on phenolic structure from skin contact, not tannins)

Alcohol

Moderate, typically 13-14% ABV

Aging potential

Good for Chenin Blanc, especially from old vines. Will develop complex honeyed/almond notes over 5-6+ years.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2028

Optimal window

2025 to 2030

Current status

Very young, still in release year. Fresh, vibrant fruit character.

Current condition

2024 vintage is freshly bottled; primary, expressive fruit and vibrant texture.

This old-vine Chenin Blanc is renowned for its ability to develop added depth in bottle. Drinking young is delightful for bright fruit and freshness, but aging for 2-5 years enables classic Chenin waxy/honeyed secondary notes and integrated minerality.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with roast chicken, pork, mild curry, butter-poached seafood, fresh cheeses, or dishes with earthy spices (ginger, turmeric).

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Old-vine preservation, natural pest control, cover crop use, minimal irrigation (water stress management), energy-efficient cellar, use of lightweight glass for bottles.

Ken Forrester is a recognized leader in sustainable viticulture in South Africa, focusing on old-vine preservation, biodiversity, soil health, and water conservation. While not certified organic or biodynamic, the estate implements many regenerative practices and maintains high industry-recognized sustainability standards (IPW, WWF). Exporting to global markets does increase total carbon footprint, but steps such as lightweight packaging and energy efficiency partially offset this. Overall, a highly sustainable wine by global standards, especially among commercial-scale producers.