Pinnacle Chenin Blanc 1998

Pinnacle Chenin Blanc (Stellenbosch) 1998: A pale yellow-green in the glass. The nose has crunchy Granny Smith aromas, with herbaceous notes. Initially there was a whiff of acetone or varnish, but this quickly blew off. There is also subtle, buttery oak in the background, reflecting the barrel fermentation that this Chenin has undergone. On the palate there is a surprising weight with a creamy texture, backed up by reasonable acidity and well integrated oak. A very moreish, mouth-watering finish. Very good. (1/6/00)