What happens when a Durbanville wine estate known for Sauvignon Blanc accidentally stumbles upon Chenin Blanc magic? You get a delicious plot twist worthy of a wine lover’s attention – and it’s all happening at Groot Phesantekraal.
This local favourite is flipping the script in a region celebrated for cool-climate Sauvignon. While they still make two incredible Sauvignons, the team has turned their heart and hands toward Chenin Blanc – and the results are making waves. 🌊
From Sidekick to Star 🍷
It all started as a bit of a happy accident. Their Chenins, originally part of the wider portfolio, began grabbing unexpected attention. That’s when winemaker Richard Schroeder (just 32 and already making wine magic) decided: “Let’s give Chenin the spotlight.”
And the spotlight loves it.
“We’ve uncovered so much potential in cool-climate Chenin,” says Schroeder. “Now it’s our main white wine focus.”
Why Chenin, Why Now?
Chenin is kind of the Beyoncé of grapes – versatile, resilient, and always giving. But cool-climate Chenin? That’s a vibe. 🍍
At Groot Phesantekraal, Chenin vines thrive in Malmesbury shale soils that are both nurturing and draining (the good kind), plus the estate’s cattle herd naturally enriches the soil. Add a slow, cool ripening process, and boom: you get intense aromatics, vibrant flavours, and elegant freshness, all at lower alcohol levels.
You’ll taste crisp pear, zesty lemon, a touch of spice, and a clean, flinty finish. Basically: no palate fatigue, just palate joy.
Meet the Chenin Duo 🍾
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Anna de Koning Chenin Blanc (R265)
A bold, beautiful reserve named after a legendary 18th-century woman who once owned the estate. Hand-harvested, fermented in amphorae, concrete, and oak, it’s rich, floral, layered – with what Schroeder calls “ethereal density.” (Yes, it’s a thing. You’ll get it when you sip it.) -
Estate Chenin Blanc (R110)
Lively and lovable, this bottle brings jasmine aromas, tropical fruit, citrus, and a flinty twist. It’s your ultimate go-to for picnics braais, or just Tuesday nights.
Bonus Sip: Drink Chenin Day Special 🎉
Mark your wine calendar:
Drink Chenin Day – Saturday, 14 June
Celebrate with 15% off all Groot Phesantekraal Chenins – available at the farm or online. Your wine rack will thank you.
Ready to taste the tale?
Visit www.grootphesantekraal.co.za to grab your bottles, check out the newly revamped restaurant, and plan your next sip-and-savour adventure in Durbanville.
Cheers to cool Chenin and even cooler stories. 🍷✨
