Family Skuinskap Steen Chenin Blanc 2024

Affectionately known as Poenies Blue-Eyed Boy, this wine hails from a single 48-year-old Chenin Blanc vineyard planted in 1977 in the Piekenierskloof ward of the Citrusdal Mountain district. Perched at 750 metres above sea level, the vineyards decomposed sandstone soils and trellised vines produce fruit of remarkable purity and precision.

Farmed with care by the Sandell family, this site experiences warm days tempered by cool nightsconditions that preserve natural acidity and aromatic lift. The grapes are harvested in two stages to balance freshness and ripeness, ensuring both vibrancy and depth in the final wine. After gentle whole-cluster pressing, fermentation took place naturally, with no added yeast or enzymes.

The wine then matured for 10 months in three neutral 500L French oak barrels, allowing texture and nuance to develop without overt oak influence. The result is a focused, elegant Chenin Blanc with aromas of orange and lime peel, subtle smoky reduction, and layers of pear, peach, citrus, and straw. On the palate, it is light yet intensely flavoured, carried by crisp acidity and an ultra-dry, taut finisha wine of precision, restraint, and quiet confidence.

Technical Details: Producer: Lourens Family Wines Region: Piekenierskloof Style: White Wine Variety: Chenin Blanc Vintage: 2024 Body: Medium Alcohol: 13% Bottle Size: 750ml Rating: 94/100 Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za