Ken Forrester, FMC Chenin Blanc 750ml 2019

'The 2019 FMC Chenin Blanc is yet another monumental effort from Ken Forrester and co. Superbly rich, layered and wonderfully textured, this new release with an exotic RS of 8.9g/l boasts a complex aromatic profile with notes of honeysuckle, white peaches, warm buttered white toast with honey and an exotic hint of wet straw, dried herbs and mint leaf. Considered by many as one of the finest examples of old vine Chenin Blanc in South Africa, year in and year out, the 2019 expression boasts an opulent rich palate layered with hints of botrytis, fleshy textural yellow orchard fruits, intense apricot, nectarine, passion fruit and white peach purée together with a pronounced granitic minerality on the rich, long unctuous finish. Very impressive benchmark quality as you’d expect! Drink now to 2030+.' – Greg Sherwood MW, 95/100

'A bold, true expression of chenin. 2019 notes of baked apple & pear, honey & charred pineapple, rounded off with creamy lees character. Selection from mostly old low-yield bushvines (1974) for a wine that is very drinkable now & will develop into a fine gem. Year in barrel. 13% alcohol.' – Platter's Guide, 4.5* (93/100)

'There is, as ever, some botrytis present in this distinctive, just off-dry Chenin Blanc from Ken Forrester, which boasts 8.9 grams of residual sugar in 2019. Wild fermented in new 400-litre barrels, it combines flavours of pear, nectarine and vanilla spice with racy supporting acidity. Intense, concentrated stuff. Drink 2021-27.' – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2020, 93/100

'The pinnacle of what we consider to be the finest expression of the grapes of this varietal – an icon chenin, a challenge to the world! Rich, layered with dried apricot, vanilla and honey.' – Ken Forrester