2023 Mullineux Iron Chenin Blanc
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Tasting notes
The Mullineux 2023 Swartland Iron Chenin Blanc comes from a site with large, gravelly soils and plenty of iron-rich koffie klip ("coffee stone"). These soils are not especially compact, and they manage to retain water well. This beautiful wine does indeed present a not-so-subtle ferrous note that pops from the bouquet. Beyond that, it descends slowly into supple and sweet aromas of honeydew melon, Golden Delicious apple, honeycomb and quince. The wine is texturally rich but not heavy, and it ends with a drying mineral edge of crushed chalk.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Chenin Blanc Iron marks its return to the portfolio after Mullineux did not produce one in 2022. This has a more backward nose compared to the Granite cuvée, with touches of lanolin and hints of yellow fruit. The palate is much more expressive than the aromatics. It has a wonderful oily texture and plenty of depth and extract. It’s spicier than the Granite, with a long tail on the finish. Try to give this two or three years in bottle.
About the producer
Chris and Andrea Mullineux were at the forefront of South Africa’s new-wave movement and are now one of the country’s most established names. Alongside the Swartland project that made their name, they make wines in Franschhoek under the Leeu Passant name – a tribute to South Africa’s vinous past.