Babylon's Peak Chenin Blanc 2025
A crisp yet generous Chenin Blanc, with tropical fruit character reined in by citrus and underlying mineral notes.
These dry-farmed bush vines were planted in 1969 on weathered granite soils, and produce very low yields: around 30hl/ha.
The grapes were destemmed and lightly crushed. The free-run juice was fermented at low temperature (10-12ºC) in stainless steel tanks for twenty-one days. The wine was then kept on its lees for several months until bottling.
| RRP | £18.75 |
| Vintage | 2025 |
| Alcoholic strength | 13% |
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | Coastal Region |
| Subregion | Swartland |
| Grapes | Chenin Blanc 100% |
| Residual sugar (g/l) | 2.9 |
| Dry/Sweet value | 2 |
| Contains sulphites | Yes |
| Vegetarian | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Organic | No |
| Biodynamic | No |
| Closure | Screwcap |
Babylon’s Peak is both a stalwart and a relative newcomer within the resurgent Swartland winemaking scene. Stephan Basson’s great-grandfather established the farm in 1919, and wine was made in the old cellar here until 1948. It then fell into disuse until Stephan renovated the cellar and recommenced production. The vineyards, some of the highest in the region at up to 700 metres, lie on the slopes of the Paardeberg Mountain, and have proven especially suitable for Chenin Blanc and Rhône varieties. The wines have a vivid purity, an almost crystalline concentration that belies Swartland’s hot climate just as the prices defy its hype.
