2021 Spice Route Swartland Chenin Blanc

Charles Back was a pioneer in the Swartland, the region north of Cape Town in the Western Cape, when he started Spice Route in 1998.  It is probably true that without him the Swartland would still be regarded as a rural backwater. Today, the region is the source of many of South Africa’s outstanding wines, yet Spice Route remains one of the best and most credible producers in the region.  Winemaker Charl du Plessis has been with Charles since 2002 and knows the region intimately. Despite the desert-like conditions of the region, the vines are not irrigated.

The Spice Route Swartland Chenin Blanc is a superbly complex chenin.  It is bright yellow in colour with aromas of peach, tropical fruits and subtle flinty hints on the nose. The palate is rich and broad, but with a vibrant acidity which carries the flavours onto the lingering finish.