Mulderbosch Sparkling Chenin Blanc, Western Cape, South Africa

2021 Mulderbosch Sparkling Chenin Blanc, Western Cape, South Africa brings Chenin Blanc’s ripe orchard and tropical fruit together with a touch of oak-derived earthiness and vanilla. Eight months in neutral, large-format oak precede in-line carbonation, giving this lively, fruit-forward wine a rounded edge.

Product Details:

• Grapes: 100% Chenin Blanc
• Harvest: Early and cool
• Fermentation: Natural fermentation
• Aging: 8 months in neutral, large-format oak barrels
• Carbonation: In-line carbonation
• Residual Sugar: 6.4 g/L
• Total Acidity: 6.7 g/L
• pH: 3.39
• Free SO₂: 40 mg/L
• Total SO₂: 118 mg/L
• ABV: 13.0%
• Producer: Mulderbosch
• Owner: Investment group led by Third Leaf Partners
• Winemaker: Henry Kotzé
• Vintage: 2021

Sensory Description:

The wine shows a golden hue edged with green. Aromas of apricot, peach, and pear are layered with tropical fruit, earthy notes, and vanilla pod. The palate is generous and fruit-led, with a gentle sweetness and sweeter spice, balanced by the wine’s bright acidity.

Awards & Accolades:

• Score: James Suckling, 90 Points, 2022
• Rating: Platter’s South African Wines, 3½ Stars

Producer’s Background:

Larry Jacobs and Mike Dobrovic founded Mulderbosch in 1989 on a former fruit farm in Stellenbosch, releasing the winery’s first vintage in 1992. Their early work helped establish a creative, varietally focused identity for the estate. An investment group led by Third Leaf Partners acquired the winery at the end of 2018, beginning a new chapter in its ownership.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve well chilled in a white wine glass or sparkling wine tulip to let the Chenin Blanc aromas open. Pair with shellfish, spiced dishes, savory appetizers, or mild cheeses. Enjoy while the wine’s fruit and freshness are prominent; a vintage-specific drinking window was not found.