I was given a sample of this wine as part of a blind tasting game. Admittedly I was quite good this time, and went directly to the right wine style, main grape and country. This one can do only when it’s a good wine, and true to its origins. Luck had it that I had already opened a panettone, Italian christmas cake, and it turned out a fabulous pairing.
Stellenrust was established in 1928 and is now among the largest family wineries in Stellenbosch. They harvest from nearly 400ha of vineyards surrounding the town. They take pride in various socio-economic projects, especially for the people working by them – and are Fairtrade certified.
The wine is based on chenin blanc farmed as bush vines 50 of 50 years, and muscat d’alexandrie 70 years old and trellised. Selected botrytised grapes are pressed gently with some skin-contact, then spontaneously fermented in old wooden casks. Chenin and muscat are treated separately and blended after 12 months.
Chenin d’Muscat Noble Late Harvest 2021 (Stellenrust)
Light golden. Mature citrus (lemon), candied fruits (apricot), sultanas, flowers, evident botryuis and a touch of honey. Good volume, concentration and acidity, moderate sweetness, and the candied fruit returns in the mouth.
Price: Medium
Food: Perfect with my panettone (with pineapple, apricot and pistachios). Should go with lemon tart, creamy desserts, crème brûlée and much more.