Verdelho, Chenin-Blanc, Grenache-Blanc, Grenache-Gris, Palomino
75cl * Vegan & Sustainable * 13% ABV * Hemel-en-Aarde (Western Cape), South Africa
Franco Lourens spent some years working with the great Chris Alheit before setting to focus entirely on his own range of wines. This is a breathtakingly self-assured range and almost in the blink of an eye places Franco into the very top bracket of top-end New Wave South Africa producers. A champion of old-vine Chenin, Franco is inevitably set to join the likes of Eben Sadie, Adi Badenhorst, Duncan Savage et al in the shimmering constellation of New Wave South African stars, so it's a great chance to try his wines before the prices inevitably rise to reflect how sensational the wines really are.
Lindi Carien was made in order to pay for an engagement ring, and so, is named in honour of Franco's ever supportive wife, Lindi Carien Lourens. The 2021 vintage is Verdelho led, with Chenin Blanc, Colombard, Grenache Blanc (5 days of skin contact) and a touch (7%) of Palomino from sites across Stellenbosch and the Swartland. A mix of fermentation vessels including old barrels have been used, 5 days of skin contact utilised on the Grenache Blanc. Mouth-watering and balanced, this is drinking beautifully now, but will cellar for another 10 years.
"The 2021 Lindi Carien White Blend is whole cluster pressed and matured for 10 months in used French oak. It has a backward nose that opens nicely with aeration, apple blossom and beeswax, touches of mandarin and fresh pear in the background. The palate is well balanced with a slightly oxidative entry, light flor like elements lending spice and a waxy texture. Plenty of energy towards the finish, it leaves a pleasant sour lemon note to tempt you back for more. Drink 2023-2037" Neal Martin, Vinous.