The Liberator Francophile Chenin Blanc 2021/22, Stellenbosch, South Africa

About The Liberator: Beyond the periphery of South Africa’s conventional vineyard regions lie great vinous treasures, resigned to anonymity; forgotten, abandoned or just simply undiscovered. it is the mission of Rick, our intrepid Cape Crusader, to seek out and liberate these rare wines, consigning them to the table of the most inquisitive and discerning imbiber. Each episode represents a precious parcel that is both unique and finite.

On his regular jaunts around the Cape, seeing the number of great wines that are resigned to a tragic fate of being blended away or disposed of in bulk confounded Rick. It might be an occasional experimental batch, or possible an interesting off-cut from some proud winemakers latest premium release. Whatever their provenance, it’s Ricks mission as The Liberator to procure these precious vinous orphans and consign them to a better home.

Inevitably, each wine discovered by The Liberator comes with its own story; a tale of its untimely existence. Every release has its testimony recounted, in a bottle and on screen, as a unique and evocative episode.

Description: This wine is part of the superb parcel of wines “Liberated” by MW Richard Kelley. Richard believes that Chenin Blanc is the world’s best grape variety. This parcel is delicious to drink now and is lighter in style than is the norm in the Cape. Faint hints of oak, delicate fruit flavours, some Vouvray-esque notes and a light fresh finish.

What the press says: “Crisp refreshing light textured fleshy white peaches that will brighten up your staycation. Drink it by itself or with grilled plaice or seabass” John Wilson, The Irish Times

Alcohol: 14%