Description
Afrikaans Vol. VII White Blend 2025 brings together fruit from Stellenbosch and Piekenierskloof, combining coastal freshness with the aromatic intensity of old-vine inland sites. It is a white blend built on contrast and balance, where bright citrus and stone fruit meet a little extra texture and breadth from careful élevage. The result is a wine that feels polished but still energetic, with enough detail to keep it interesting from the first glass to the last.
The nose opens with ruby grapefruit, elderflower, and nectarine, giving the wine an immediately lifted, inviting profile. On the palate, peach and citrus form the core, while succulent acidity keeps the fruit in check and drives the wine forward with real freshness. Medium-bodied and finely shaped, it carries its ripeness well, finishing clean and lively rather than broad. It would pair especially well with grilled fish, roast chicken, creamy pasta, or summer salads with citrus and herbs, where its fruit and acidity can work naturally with the dish.
Already highly expressive, this is a versatile white blend made for near-term enjoyment, though its lees aging and measured oak use should help it hold its shape nicely over the next few years.
The nose opens with ruby grapefruit, elderflower, and nectarine, giving the wine an immediately lifted, inviting profile. On the palate, peach and citrus form the core, while succulent acidity keeps the fruit in check and drives the wine forward with real freshness. Medium-bodied and finely shaped, it carries its ripeness well, finishing clean and lively rather than broad. It would pair especially well with grilled fish, roast chicken, creamy pasta, or summer salads with citrus and herbs, where its fruit and acidity can work naturally with the dish.
Already highly expressive, this is a versatile white blend made for near-term enjoyment, though its lees aging and measured oak use should help it hold its shape nicely over the next few years.
The grapes were sourced from Devon Valley and Polkadraai in Stellenbosch, along with old-vine sites in Piekenierskloof. In Stellenbosch, the cooling southeaster and ocean influence help preserve fresh acidity, while Piekenierskloof’s sandy soils and old vines contribute perfume and intensity. The Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay were whole-bunch pressed, then fermented slowly at cool temperatures in a mix of vessels, including new and seasoned oak barrels. After fermentation, the wine matured on the fine lees for 6 months to build texture and mouthfeel, with 15% new oak used in the final élevage.
Winemaker: Danielle le Roux
Winemaker: Danielle le Roux
Jean Engelbrecht, owner of the prestigious Stellenbosch estate winery Rust en Vrede becomes philosophical when he speaks about one of his favourite subjects. “Wine brings people together,” he explains. “When you share a glass of wine with someone it brings you closer. It helps to improve communication between people. Wine builds bridges.”
Engelbrecht’s latest wine is named Afrikaans. After the language. Launched during the programme announcement of this year’s Toyota US Woordfees on 18 November 2019, Afrikaans – the wine – aims to celebrate the language without baggage.
“Afrikaans, our new wine, is definitely apolitical,” he emphasises. “I truly and deeply believe the Afrikaans language should not be hijacked by exclusivity from within one specific group. Afrikaans is no better, or worse, than any other language. All languages are equal, while users should not elevate one above others.”
Engelbrecht’s latest wine is named Afrikaans. After the language. Launched during the programme announcement of this year’s Toyota US Woordfees on 18 November 2019, Afrikaans – the wine – aims to celebrate the language without baggage.
“Afrikaans, our new wine, is definitely apolitical,” he emphasises. “I truly and deeply believe the Afrikaans language should not be hijacked by exclusivity from within one specific group. Afrikaans is no better, or worse, than any other language. All languages are equal, while users should not elevate one above others.”
