Mullineux Straw Wine, Swartland, South Africa

Gleaming with golden allure and crafted with exceptional precision, the 2020 Mullineux Straw Wine, Swartland, South Africa, is a masterclass in balance and opulence. This dessert wine, made from sun-dried Chenin Blanc grapes, delivers a deeply expressive, richly layered experience that captures the raw beauty of the Swartland’s rugged terroir and the finesse of artisanal winemaking. More than a sweet wine, this vintage is an homage to South African excellence in late-harvest expression.

Product Details:

• Grape Variety: 100% Chenin Blanc
• ABV: 13%
• Residual Sugar: High
• Production Method: Straw-dried grapes, fermented in old French oak barrels, stainless steel, and ceramic vessels
• Aging: On the lees in fermentation vessels for additional texture
• Farming Practices: Sustainable dryland farming from select Swartland vineyards
• Winemakers: Chris Mullineux and Andrea Mullineux
• Owners: Chris and Andrea Mullineux, Analjit Singh

Sensory Description:

A dazzling amber hue announces this wine’s decadent nature. The nose is richly aromatic, delivering layers of dried apricot, Cape gooseberry compote, marzipan, candied citrus peel, and wild honey. On the palate, it is both plush and vibrant, stone fruit marmalade, roasted nuts, and vanilla cream unfold against a backdrop of granitic freshness. The concentration is remarkable, yet balanced with a streak of bracing acidity that provides lift and tension through the enduring finish.

Winemaker's Background:

Mullineux is a boutique family-run winery based in Riebeek Kasteel, Swartland. Founded in 2007 by husband-and-wife winemakers Chris and Andrea Mullineux, the estate is dedicated to capturing the essence of the Swartland’s granite- and shale-rich soils. Their wines are built upon minimal intervention, natural fermentation, and an enduring respect for land and community. In 2013, their partnership with entrepreneur Analjit Singh led to the formation of Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, further expanding their reach while maintaining the same artisanal values.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve well-chilled at 45–50°F in a small dessert wine glass. This wine pairs exquisitely with aged cheeses like Roquefort or Stilton, stone fruit tarts, apricot-glazed duck, or simply sipped on its own as a grand finale to any meal.

The 2020 Mullineux Straw Wine, Swartland, South Africa, is a rare gem, a wine that celebrates craftsmanship, terroir, and time. With its luxurious depth, luminous character, and vibrant structure, it delivers indulgence with every sip and confirms the Mullineux name as a benchmark in global sweet wine production.