Have you tasted a free run Chenin Blanc yet?
Chenin Blanc as a variety arguably still has some way to go in terms of reaching the same level of popularity as Sauvignon Blanc. While the comparison of apples and oranges isn’t fair, it does warm the heart to find a greater selection of quality Chenin Blanc wines both on shelves and on wine lists. With Chenin being so chameleon-like in its style, the most important thing is to find your preferred style of Chenin, and enjoying South Africa’s national white grape variety is all about finding the right fit for you.
De Krans Wines in Calitzdorp offers a unique, boutique style Chenin Blanc packed with fresh ripe tropical fruit, ripe banana, guava and passion fruit, with hints of lime. The taste is well-rounded, with a fresh acidity and a lingering aftertaste. Aptly known as the Free Run Chenin Blanc, because only the free run part of the juice is used, resulting in more intense fruit flavours, complexity and longevity. This wine is light enough to drink on its own (well chilled), but also pairs well with summer salads and seafood dishes. This Chenin is not only a winner in terms of good value for money, but it also raked in some noteworthy awards including winning Gold at both the 2019 GOLD Wine Awards and 2019 Gold Winner Ultra Value Challenge.
De Krans Wines has come a long way from being known solely as a port style wine producer with their range expanding far beyond, including Portuguese style red wines such as their flagship, the Tritonia Calitzdorp Blend and their popular premium Moscato range. While they continue to produce award winning port style wines, it is neither valid nor relevant to limit them to this one category. The De Krans Free Run Chenin Blanc 2019 retails for approximately R70 per bottle and forms part of their Classic Varietal Range, which also includes the Pinotage Rosé, Wild Ferment Chardonnay and Basket Press Cabernet Sauvignon.