Testalonga - Mielie Green Chenin Blanc 2022
Testalonga is the brain-child of experimental natural winemaker Craig Hawkins. Vintner Craig Hawkins has rigidly stuck to his organic wine-making roots after numerous rejections from confused South African counterparts after learning first-hand from many different European wine producers. He settled in the Swartland, South Africa and decided to create his vineyard, and has since been producing bold, near-biodynamic wines that are completely out of the box. His El Bandito and Baby Bandito series are named with aspiration phrases - such as 'Be Brave' - and feature stylised, artistic photographs taken by his brother.
The Mielie (the Afrikaans word for 'corn,' hence the label!) is an hommage to the winemakers daughter, Millie. The wine is made from 100% old vine Chenin Blanc, with a soft acidity and a certain minerality to it. Having undergone full malolactic fermentation, this has a creamy quality to balance out the punchy crisp green apple flavours, and has lovely long finish. A staple wine for Chenin lovers!
Size: 75cl BottleABV: 12%
Vintage: 2022
Country: South Africa
Region: Swartland
Grape Variety: Chenin Blanc
Brand Name: Testalonga