Red dry
The wine is produced from sites with exceptionally low yields. The berries are small but concentrated. Soil type — Grenache (planted in 1959) grows on granite soils at 450 m above sea level, while Syrah (planted in 1999) grows on soils rich in gravel and clay. This is a very limited production wine — only 1500 bottles were filled. The wine is aged separately for 12 months in old French oak vessels, and a further 12 months after the final blend. After bottling, the wine rests in bottle for another two years before being released to the market.
A substantial, berry-driven red wine with velvety tannins, offering aromas of vanilla and nutmeg, spices, wild red berries and cinnamon.
Serve at 16–18 °C with duck, wild poultry, game dishes or smoked meat.
This shows plenty of dark cherries, plums, dried cranberries and some cream character. The body's full but there's lots of fresh acidity to buttress the fine tannins. GSM blend Screw cap. Drink or hold.
The charismatic Ken Forrester, the figure behind some of South Africa's most acclaimed wines, states, "Our idea was simple – to create the best wine. For the first four or five years, we had nothing to show." However, a pivotal bottle taken to London for wine expert Matthew Duke changed everything. His reaction was incredible – it was an unprecedented expression of ‘Chenin Blanc’ from South Africa. Matthew Duke didn't hide his enthusiasm, simply calling the wine "This is frickin marvelous chenin."
The winery's philosophy is remarkably clear and focused – to produce the finest wines possible. This is undoubtedly a constant goal, challenged annually by nature's unpredictable vintage variations. Nevertheless, careful and attentive vineyard monitoring and management allow for the most optimal decisions each year. Although Ken Forrester wines are not officially certified organic or biodynamic, significant efforts are made on the estate to adhere to environmentally friendly, sustainable, and nature-preserving standards.
Wine Style
Ken Forrester wines are celebrated for their expressiveness, richness, and excellent balance. They perfectly reflect the terroir of the Stellenbosch region and the winemaker's individual touch.
Prestigious Vineyards
Ken Forrester Wines owns and meticulously manages vineyards in the prestigious Stellenbosch region of South Africa:
These unique vineyard characteristics and meticulous work in the cellar are the foundation for the exceptional quality of Ken Forrester wines.
Aging and Drinking Period
The style of Ken Forrester wines allows them to be enjoyed both in their youth and after bottle aging. Their balanced acidity and structure give the wines the potential to develop over time, gaining even more nuance and complexity. This is particularly true for their top-tier ‘Chenin Blanc’ and red wines, which can offer pleasure for decades.