Rijk's, Chenin Blanc, Tulbagh, South Africa, 2015

Long considered South Africa’s most widely regarded white grape, this bottling from Rijk’s, located in the Tulbach Valley (situated to the north of Paarl and bordering Swartland to the east and south) is a concentrated, full-bodied and fruit forward example worth seeking out. The winery, which specialises in Chenin Blanc and Pinotage, hand-harvested the grapes before crushing and pressing, with 20% cold fermented for freshness and fruit flavour, and 80% fermented in both French and Hungarian oak for structure. Flavours of melon, peach and tropical pineapple combine with a subtle nuttiness giving a creamy texture on the palate but balanced with fresh acidity giving a long, lingering and moreish finish. A wine to drink now but also with excellent ageing potential. International delivery available through Rijk's website; rijkswine.com.