Lourens Family Wines Skuinskap Steen Chenin Blanc 2020 - 3pk

This wine showcases the textural complexity that old-vine chenin blanc can achieve when handled with restraint. The 10 months on lees in older French oak adds body and mouthfeel without overwhelming the fruit, while the single vineyard fruit from 1977 plantings provides exceptional concentration. Franco Lourens' winemaking philosophy, influenced by his time with Chris Alheit, focuses on expressing terroir rather than varietal stereotypes, resulting in a wine that balances South African power with European finesse.

The exceptional ratings (96pts The WineMag, 94pts Tim Atkin MW) reflect both the quality of the old-vine fruit and Franco Lourens' emerging reputation as a serious winemaker. His background working with legendary producer Chris Alheit and international experience at Vasse Felix has given him a unique perspective on chenin blanc. The wine demonstrates the potential of South African chenin to compete with the world's finest white wines when made with precision and respect for the vineyard.

The wine's medium body and complex flavour profile of fennel, stonefruit, and citrus make it incredibly food-friendly. The textural weight from lees ageing pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, pork belly, or creamy seafood dishes, while the citrus acidity cuts through rich sauces. The minerality and herbal notes complement Asian cuisine, particularly Thai or Vietnamese dishes with fresh herbs, and the wine's complexity can stand up to aged cheeses or charcuterie.

Vines planted in 1977 are now over 45 years old, which is considered old vine territory for chenin blanc. These mature vines naturally produce lower yields with more concentrated flavours and greater mineral complexity drawn from deep root systems. The age of the vineyard contributes to the wine's remarkable depth and the seamless integration of fruit, texture, and acidity that younger vines simply cannot achieve, explaining why single vineyard expressions from old vines command such respect.

Chenin blanc, locally known as 'Steen', is South Africa's most planted white variety and represents the country's winemaking heritage dating back centuries. The name 'Skuinskap' reflects the local vernacular, connecting this modern expression to traditional South African wine culture. Franco Lourens is part of a new generation of winemakers elevating chenin blanc from everyday drinking wine to world-class expressions, proving that South African chenin can rival the great whites of Loire Valley while maintaining its own distinctive character.