A Chenin Blanc that speaks softly but leaves a lasting impression.

Hereafter Here is a Chenin Blanc from Alheit Vineyards that celebrates the potential of young vines and the promise of future generations. Created to showcase younger vineyard parcels that have yet to reach the maturity required for the Alheit Cartology blend, this wine brings together fruit from across the Western Cape, with parcels from the Swartland near Malmesbury, Piekenierskloof, Bottelary and Polkadraai, complemented by older-vine fruit from the Paardeberg and Tygerberg. The result is a thoughtful expression of Chenin Blanc that favours subtlety, depth and texture over sheer intensity.

The grapes were harvested early in the morning, sorted in the vineyard and whole-bunch pressed. The juice was allowed to settle only very lightly, with no additions made to the raw juice. Wild fermentation took place in old barrels of various sizes over approximately two months. The wine remained on its lees for around 12 months before spending a further six months resting in tank on fine lees, without fining, ahead of bottling. This restrained approach to winemaking allows the character of the fruit and its diverse vineyard origins to take centre stage.

Tasting Notes: The nose is subtle and inviting, revealing delicate yellow fruit and sweet herbal notes rather than an overtly powerful aromatic expression. On the palate, the wine takes on a savoury character, with layered flavours that develop gradually and unfold with remarkable patience. Its depth is understated, building slowly before settling into a composed, lingering finish. Mellow, nuanced and quietly expressive, Hereafter Here 2023 is a Chenin Blanc made for the table, rewarding thoughtful drinking and pairing beautifully with food.

Food Pairing: Roast Chicken: Roast chicken with lemon, thyme and golden pan juices complements the wine's savoury character and gentle yellow-fruit profile. Grilled Fish: Grilled hake or line fish with browned butter and a squeeze of lemon brings out its subtle fruit and layered texture. Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Earthy mushrooms, Parmesan and the richness of a well-made risotto work beautifully with the wine's savoury depth. Roast Cauliflower: Charred cauliflower with toasted almonds and a light tahini dressing echoes its restrained, nuanced character. Mature Cheese: Aged Gouda or a mature farmhouse-style hard cheese makes an excellent match, allowing the wine's depth to unfold alongside the cheese's nutty, savoury flavours.

Hereafter Here is what Chris Alheit calls a "young vineyard wine" although it contains older material from the Paardeberg and Tygerberg too. Blended with a splash of Semillon from Franschhoek, it's a total bargain in the range, with a nice interplay of lees, beeswax and granite-derived structure and a touch of flinty reduction. 2024-29. Tim Atkin 94

ANALYSIS: ALC 13.21% | TA 5.45 g/L | pH 3.40 | RS 1.6 g/L