2023 Craven Karibib Vineyard Chenin Blanc
  • 92

2023 Craven Karibib Vineyard Chenin Blanc

Stellenbosch, SOUTH AFRICA
$44. 99
Bottle
$539.88 Dozen
ABV: 12.7%
Closure: Diam Cork

The Stellenbosch wine region in South Africa's Western Cape is renowned for its diverse terroir, featuring ancient granite and shale soils that provide a strong foundation for viticulture. Its Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cooling breezes from False Bay, helps moderate temperatures and preserve grape acidity. This unique combination of soils and climate enables Stellenbosch to produce high-quality wines known for their depth and elegance. Dedicated to the region, the Cravens focus exclusively on single-vineyard wines from Stellenbosch, working closely with growers to craft wines that reflect their unique origins and sense of place.
In 2015 the Cravens discovered a beautiful bush vine Chenin Blanc vineyard in the Polkadraai Hills, previously farmed for sweet wine production. With some care, the block was transformed for dry wine production.. The fruit is whole-bunch pressed to a concrete tank for natural fermentation and malolactic conversion. The wine rests on lees for four months before its first racking, spending a total of nine months in concrete before bottling.
Alc. 12.7%

Craven is one of the most interesting wine projects in South Africa - Jamie Goode, Wine Anorak, April 2017

Other Reviews....
The 2023 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. Drink 2024 - 2032.
92 Points
Neal Martin - Antonio Galloni's Vinous

Matured for nine months in concrete. Subtle notes of peach, orange and potpourri on the nose while the palate is medium bodied and tightly wound – the acidity well integrated and the finish gently savoury.
92 Points
Christian Eedes - Winemag