Waterkloof Circumstance Chenin Blanc 2025

Waterkloof is the estate of Paul Boutinot, set on a steep site around four kilometres from the coast at False Bay, within the Stellenbosch WO in South Africa's Coastal Region. The vineyards are farmed organically and biodynamically, and the cool sea breezes off the bay temper the Cape sun, extending ripening and helping this Chenin Blanc keep freshness at a ripe 14.5 per cent. Chenin is South Africa's signature white, and here it is fermented and aged for six months in barrel on its lees. Barrel fermentation and extended lees contact build a fuller, rounder texture: the wine takes on a creamy weight and a light nutty, vanilla character from the wood, while regular lees stirring adds body without heavy oak flavour. The wine is bright straw gold. The nose shows ripe pear and white peach with honey, beeswax and a toasted, almond edge. The palate is broad and textured, the ripe fruit balanced by fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 11 to 13 degrees in a large white glass. It suits roast chicken, pork belly and richer fish.