Black Pearl Chenin Blanc 2022

90 points James Suckling
“Aromas of sliced pears, green apples, apricots and poppy seed. Medium bodied with crisp acidity and silky texture. Rather fresh fruited and focused with a refreshing finish. Sustainable.”
Mary Lou Nash & family relocated from New Hampshire in 1995 and taught themselves how to grow grapes and make wine. The 4.5 hectares of Shiraz (planted 1998) and 3 hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon (planted 1999) are nestled between a parcel of extremely rare patch of Renosterveld (an indigenous flora) which is considered a World Heritage area. Since no white grapes are grown on this particular property, Mary Lou buys fruit elsewhere and produces this Chenin in a bright, fruit forward style, that’s easy to drink. Given that the region she’s from is quite warm (like Paso) it makes little sense to work with Sauv Blanc or Chardonnay – making Chenin Blanc not just the natural choice, but an early revenue generator, while the reds sit in barrel.