“This is probably the best-value wine in the Alheit range.” - Jancis Robinson MW, 17 points

“We can’t plant old vineyards, I wish we could.” - Chris Alheit

A new wine from Chris Alheit is big news in these parts, which is a reflection of Chris Alheit’s mighty reputation and not a criticism of these parts. It’s a Chenin Blanc made from young vines, planted by Chris and Suzaan with one eye on the future (young vines eventually become old vines after all) and is made in the same way as their single vineyard wines (malolactic fermentation, 18 months in barrel etc.) and is abuzz with energy and precision. It’s a fantastic example of bush-vine Chenin full of cool stone fruits and something earthy, like grist from the mill, and plenty of dry extract and tannic pinch to give it authority. A cracking follow-up to the debut 2020 vintage and a wine that bridges the gap between their (sadly discontinued) Flotsam and Jetsam white and their premium ‘single vineyard’ cuvées. 13.5% alc. Drink now-2029.

Press review:

Tim Atkin MW: “First produced in 2020, this Chenin Blanc hails from dry farmed, bush vine vineyards that are less than 20 years' old, blending components from Stellenbosch and the Swartland. Savoury and refreshing, with mouth-watering acidity, rock salt and lemongrass flavours and the zip that's typical of the 2021 whites. Drink now-2029.” 93 points

Jancis Robinson MW: “Really intense, bright fruit aromas! Sculpted structure with notable acidity. This is probably the best-value wine in the Alheit range. Very juicy indeed and already approachable. Impressive length. Drink now-2027.” 17 points

Customer comment:

“A very good (if pricier) replacement for the much-missed Flotsam & Jetsam!” - Mr T.P