Alheit Vineyards Hereafter Here Chenin Blanc 2023
| Producer | Alheit Vineyards |
|---|---|
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | Hemel-en-Aarde |
| Wine Type | White Wine |
| Body / Style | Aromatic |
| Grape Blend | Chenin Blanc |
| Bottle Size (ml) | 750 |
| % Abv | 13 |
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Special Features | Sustainable, Vegan |
| Extra Info | Pure, citrusy, mineral |
| Food Pairing Guide | This pure, mineral Chenin Blanc is a superb partner for seafood and lighter dishes with real flavour. It’s excellent with oysters, seared scallops, grilled sea bass or hake with lemon butter, and crab or lobster. Its citrus freshness and gentle texture suit roast chicken with tarragon or lemon, pork with apple, and veal escalope. It also handles gentle spice well, so try it with Thai fishcakes, Vietnamese salads or a fragrant prawn curry. Vegetarians could try asparagus with hollandaise, a pea and mint risotto, or a leek and Gruyère tart. It’s lovely with goat’s cheese, Comté or a young Gouda. Serve it lightly chilled, rather than ice-cold, so its aromatics and texture can show. |
Alheit Vineyards Hereafter Here Chenin Blanc is Chris and Suzaan Alheit’s project for the future. The Alheits are among the leading names in South Africa’s modern fine-wine movement and are celebrated worldwide for their Chenin Blanc. Most of their wines come from heritage old vines, but Hereafter Here looks forward, drawing on younger vineyards chosen and planted purely for quality, with some older-vine fruit adding depth. The name captures the idea of a moment still to come, in the place they love. As with all Alheit wines, the cellar approach is minimal and hands-off, with natural fermentation and patient maturation.
In the glass it is a bright, pale gold. The nose is expressive and pure, with lime, lemon, white peach and Granny Smith apple, lifted by floral perfume and hints of yellow plum, candle wax and crushed stone. The palate is focused and mineral, with fresh acidity balanced by a plush, savoury texture. The finish is long and moreish. It’s an approachable introduction to the Alheit style that drinks beautifully now and will reward a few years in the bottle.
