Mullineux White Blend 2011, Swartland, South Africa

This really is one of the finds of the year for me. I snapped up the last one from Bottle Apostle's 'departure lounge' for less than £20 (to the obvious disappointment of one of the members of staff who I suspect had being coveting it). Mostly Chenin Blanc with some Clairette Blanche and Viognier.

The first thing that strikes you on the nose is a little yoghurt and a slight oatmealy sweetness, leading into dried apricot, honey, ripe pineapple, a touch of lime cordial and even petrol/kerosine. Curry powder spice and dried apple creep in too. The palate is full and textured with apricot sweetness, keenly balanced with fresh acidity, a slight yoghurty tang again, some white peppery grip and fragrant honey and vanilla on the finish. Character and elegance here; certainly one of the greatest South African whites I've tried to date and one of the sort of quality that would normally cost you big bucks.