Mick and Jeanine Craven embody the artisanal, natural spirit of the Cape wine scene. Their wines, crafted from single vineyard, single varietal grapes exclusively within the Stellenbosch region, are known for their minimal intervention and subtle elegance. The Cravens are dedicated to showcasing the unique terroir of Stellenbosch.

Chenin blanc is a variety that we always wanted to work with, but were waiting for the right vineyard to come along. Towards the end of 2015, we came across a beautiful site up on the Polkadraai Hills. This faux-bushvine vineyard had previously been farmed for sweet wine production, and the farmer was happy that a few of us were keen to make some dry wine out of it! A little bit of TLC and we had a special block on our hands. We whole-bunch pressed this wine to a tank to settle overnight. The next day we transferred it to a concrete tank, where it was left to ferment naturally. We allowed it to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilise itself, and then left it on the lees for around 4 months before its first racking. It spent a total of 9 months in concrete before bottling.

Tasting Notes: On the nose intense fruit (pear, lemon peel, mixed soft fruits), spices (cloves, allspice), minerality, beeswax, with a creamy yet zesty texture.  Punchy, zesty, with a saline overtone, providing balance. Finishing  with savory, with grip, minerality, and great length.

This is considered a standout South African Chenin Blanc, embodying the Cravens' philosophy of producing light, complex wines that express unique vineyard terroir, offering both immediate pleasure and aging potential. 

Chenin Blanc comes from a parcel next to Reyneke in the Karibib vineyard and was aged entirely in concrete. This has a more complex and vibrant nose than the chardonnay, revealing yellow fruit mixed with a nutty, slightly smoky scent. The Palate is very well balanced with a citrus-fresh entry and a very subtle flor-like finish that comes through more clearly on the aftertaste. Superb. – Neal Martin, Vinous 92 points