Legend has it that it was an earlier Raats generation that brought the Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc vines to South Africa from the Loire Valley, France. Today, idealistic winemaker, Bruwer Raats, continues this legacy by focusing exclusively on these varietals. In early 2000, he began cajoling ancient vines on a two-hectare Stellenbosch farm. He cut back the crop to virtually uneconomic volumes, but the vines ripened vigorously. Today, these superb quality wines are a testament that the Raats family never let go of their idealism. Original Chenin is crafted without the use of any oak in order to preserve the wine’s “original,” vibrant fresh fruit character. Now in its 20th year of production, it boasts an unquestionable consistency in quality and style. Bursting with fresh fruit flavors, this vibrant wine displays a distinctive yellow apple and pineapple core, alongside notes of green melon and limes. The wine reveals zesty citrus flavors and a long mineral finish.