KWV The Mentors Chenin Blanc 2023

Get to know: KWV The Mentors Chenin Blanc

A premium South African white wine from the Swartland, showcasing the depth, texture and ageing potential of old-vine Chenin Blanc.

Tasting Note

KWV The Mentors Chenin Blanc is a richly textured, barrel-fermented white that balances generous fruit with freshness and finesse. Bright gold in colour, it opens with expressive aromas of ripe pineapple, mango, apricot and passion fruit, alongside subtle floral notes. On the palate, this Swartland Chenin Blanc is full-bodied and creamy, with layered flavours of stone fruit, citrus peel and a gentle oak spice, underpinned by a fine mineral edge. The finish is long, polished and savoury, making this a serious yet very drinkable South African white wine.

Top food pairings:

• Roast monkfish with butter beans and lemon
• Creamy chicken or mushroom dishes
• Grilled cauliflower steak with tahini and herbs

Kate Says

"This is Chenin Blanc with real confidence behind it. KWV’s Mentors team know exactly when to let the vineyard speak and when to step in – the result is a wine that feels generous, thoughtful and beautifully put together. One to linger over rather than rush."

Producer Info

KWV – The Mentors range represents the pinnacle of innovation and craftsmanship from one of South Africa’s most respected wine producers. Created as a playground for experimentation and terroir expression, these wines are made in small batches within KWV’s Paarl cellars, allowing the winemaking team to push boundaries while staying true to Swartland’s unique climate and soils.

How it’s made:

• Varieties: 100% Chenin Blanc
• Harvested from selected Swartland vineyards for concentration and balance
• Whole-bunch pressing to preserve purity and structure
• Barrel fermentation using a mix of indigenous and selected yeast strains
• Extended lees contact for 270 days, with regular stirring, followed by nine months’ maturation in 500L French oak barrels

Good to know:

• Region: Swartland, South Africa
• Style: White, still, full-bodied
• Closure: Cork
• Vegan: Yes
• ABV: 14.5%
• Vintage: 2023

Why we love it:

This South African Chenin Blanc delivers richness, texture and freshness in equal measure. It’s a brilliant example of premium Swartland white wine, offering both immediate pleasure and the structure to age gracefully over the next few years.