Ken Forrester The FMC Chenin is a white wine produced by Ken Forrester Wines, located in the Stellenbosch region of South Africa. The wine is made from Chenin Blanc grapes, which are native to the Loire Valley in France but have found a second home in South Africa, where they are known for producing some of the world’s finest expressions of the grape.
Ken Forrester FMC, The Producer:
Ken Forrester makes the top wines from South Africa and is called the ‘King of Chenin’ for a reason. He is committed to showcasing South Africa’s already established capability to make high-quality Chenin Blanc. Ken admits that it’s his favourite variety, although due to its adaptability and modest, shy nature, it is sometimes misconstrued. Yet, it creates wines that sing when properly instructed and exposed to just the appropriate amount of gentle sunlight. Definitely a difficult grape, but oh, so gratifying!
F*cking Marvellous (or Magic) Chenin*. That’s what FMC stands for, and that’s what it is. Before Ken Forrester made Chenin in South Africa, Chenin was a bland wine, with a bland history. Ken started controlling the yield, meaning better quality, healthier grapes giving higher flavour. He’s not a ‘natural’ wine producer per se, but his philosophy with the FMC is simple – the better the grape, the less you have to mess with it. If you drink one wine this month, make it this one.
*The official meaning is claimed to be Forrester Meinert Chenin, but who are we kidding?..
Ken Forrester FMC 2025 vintage:
Richly layered with pineapple, candied lemon, apricot, ginger, and vanilla, it also reveals notes of honey, spice, and crème brûlée. Balanced oak and vibrant acidity bring freshness to its opulence. Complex and youthful, it will evolve gracefully over 4–5 years.
Ken Forrester FMC wine food pairing suggestion: salmon tartare served on homemade crisps. Seafood, white meats and creamy sauces.
Did you know? His wines were served at Nelson Mandela’s 85th birthday celebration.
Benjamin Wilson –
Butterscotch, dried apricot, honey, green apple, lime, mango, caramel, brioche, pineapple. Slightly oaky on the nose but not so much on the palate. Delightful chenin blanc and a firm favourite in our house.
Emma Roberts –
Holy moly! Best chenin I’ve tasted by far! Gorgeous honey colour, crisp acidity that lingers on the finish. Plenty of honey, peach, pineapple and vanilla. FMC gets 5 stars from me!
Jessica Stokes –
Gordon Bennet!, I’ve never tasted a wine with so many unique flavours. Delightful wine.