Testalonga, Cortez 2023

Testalonga is the passion project of one of South Africa's most exciting natural winemakers, Craig Hawkins. After spending time honing his craft in Portugal and Austria, Craig returned to his native Swartland where he harnesses the Mediterranean climate to make expressive and totally organic wines. Named for Craig's pooch, Cortez 2023 is made from 100% Chenin Blanc. The grapes were hand-harvested and aged entirely in stainless steel prior to bottling. It's a gorgeously bright Chenin, with notes of lemon zest, green apple and a mineral-salty core. The palate is vibrant, with a nice lick of citrussy acidity carrying the long finish. A great wine to pair with seafood or to just enjoy as an apreritif on a sunny evening.