Reviews & Ratings

2007 Raats Family Chenin Blanc "Original Unwooded"

Winery: Raats Family

Vintage: 2007

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Original Unwooded"

Wine Category: Chenin Blanc

Grape blend: 100% Chenin Blanc

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Coastal Region

State or country: South Africa

Price: $13

Cases produced: 1,500

KWG Score: 89 (based on 2 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good (89.99-87)

Review date: February 17, 2008

Wine Review: Raats Family is one of the premier Chenin Blanc producers in South Africa. This "unwooded" option seems to perform well every year. This light yellow wine opens with a light aromatic citrus like bouquet with noticeable tangerine influence. On the palate, this wine is round, juicy, a touch acidic, and has a playful liveliness to it. It displays tangy light lime like flavors with hints of minerality. The finish is dry and refreshing. This wine would pair nicely with many foods. We came up with swordfish, bay scallops, and a soft cheese like brie. Enjoy – Ken

Winemaker Notes: Original Chenin is crafted without the use of any oak in order to preserve the wine’s “original,” vibrant fresh fruit character. It’s packed with succulent flavors of pineapple, golden delicious apple, and citrus, with hints of ginger, honeysuckle, and orange blossom and lovely minerality. This bright, tasty offering from Chenin master Bruwer Raats rivals the finest Loire Valley Vouvrays.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Chenin Blanc.