2018 Mullineux Granite Chenin Blanc
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
From two parcels of sustainably and dry-farmed bush vines, over 42 years old, planted in the decomposed granite soils of the Paardeberg. Aged for 11 months in third- and fourth-fill French oak barrels. Mid gold. Recognisably Chenin but with extra backbone. Really fine and firm with excellent acidity. And potential for evolution. Top-quality ingredients and winemaking. Long with refined baked-apple flavours. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Granite Chenin Blanc has a touch more vibrancy on the nose than its 2017 counterpart due to its youth, showing bigger and glossier because of it. The medium to full-bodied palate is finessed and powerful, with mineral-driven citrus blossoms and a spicy edge over pineapple fruit. Well done!
Cedary citrus, lightly spiced green apple. Quite oaky and chewy on the palate at the moment, dense but not heavy. Interplay of stone-dust mineral and creamy citrus and green fruits. A baby with massive potential. (JH)
About the producer
Chris and Andrea Mullineux were at the forefront of South Africa’s new-wave movement and are now one of the country’s most established names. Alongside the Swartland project that made their name, they make wines in Franschhoek under the Leeu Passant name – a tribute to South Africa’s vinous past.