2011 Swartland Secateurs Chenin Blanc
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Tasting notes
The 2011 Secateurs Chenin Blanc was fermented in Adi Badenhorst’s concrete vats. It has a light bruised apple and gooseberry scented bouquet with flinty notes developing in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp acidity; well-integrated oak and a fine build towards a light honey, almond and smoked walnut tinged finish. This is very fine and unequivocally, outstanding value. Drink now-2018. Adi Badenhorst is the charismatic winemaker who alongside Eben Sadie has put Swartland on the map. Outspoken, opinionated and talented, his charisma rubs off upon the wines he creates. Moreover, they are available at extremely affordable prices and serve as a perfect introduction to the delights of Adi’s and Swartland’s wines. Importer: Broadbent Selections, San Francisco, CA; tel. (415) 931-1725
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Old vines. Creamy, savoury and mealy, great fruit depth, fresh citrus character but it is so much more than fruit. Fine pear-grain texture and tangy sour finish. GV (JH)
Very light nose. Fun and fresh and lightly honeyed on the palate. Fun. Hint of cough sweets. Real presence on the finish. (JR)
About the producer
Adi Badenhorst was one of the original pioneers of South Africa’s New Wave. Based up on the Paardeberg, he uses a hands-off approach to craft expressive wines and spirits in the Swartland – from his moreish Capéritif to single-site Chenin Blanc, Cinsault and Grenache.