Damascene is about using flavours and aromas to describe places that are special. So it’s not too surprising that this Swartland Chenin Blanc opens with a touch of Swartland sunshine, expressed through notes of spiced peach cobbler, fynbos, Seville orange and pineapple. On the palate, there is a splendid blend of mandarin and nectarine, tempered by hints of cardamom spice. The acidity on this wine really is pristine; expressed through vibrant citrus juiciness. The more forthcoming fruit elements are countered with a smart, bitter snap of white grapefruit, and a puff of white pepper spice, which really makes for a fascinating finish.

The Swartland winter of 2023 was not quite as cold as it needed to be, which hampered vine dormancy a little. Following on from the warmer winter; December and January also had their share of hot days. Bush vines tend to absorb terrestrial radiation more than trellised vines, especially on granitic soils, so it was no surprise that their picking teams set to work a little earlier than usual.

ANALYSIS: ALC 13% | TA 5.7 g/l | RS 2.6 g/l | pH 3.34