Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2009 shows how gracefully Ken Forrester’s wines mature. With 15 years of quiet evolution behind it, this vintage has shifted from youthful orchard fruit into deep, savoury, honeyed complexity. Rich, layered and wonderfully textural, it’s a superb example of what makes old-vine South African Chenin one of the world’s most age-worthy white wines.
Ken Forrester, The Producer
Ken Forrester has spent decades championing old-vine Chenin: long before the rest of the world recognised its potential. His philosophy was simple: identify forgotten, dry-farmed bush vines; lower yields; prioritise healthy grapes; and let Chenin express itself without heavy winemaking. By 2009, this approach was already bearing global acclaim. Ken’s dedication proved that South Africa could produce Chenins of breathtaking depth and longevity, and this vintage is one of the era’s finest examples.
About the 2009 Vintage
Mature Chenin lovers will adore this: baked quince, golden apple, orange peel, beeswax, toasted almond and delicate spice. The palate is silky and concentrated, with a gentle savoury edge and remarkable freshness for its age. Subtle earthiness and warm-stone minerality round out the finish. A contemplative wine that still has years of life ahead.
Food Pairing Suggestion
Ideal with roasted guinea fowl, saffron risotto or scallops with brown butter.
Did you know?
The 2009 vintage comes from vineyards planted as early as the 1960s — now officially certified as “Old Vine Heritage” blocks.
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