Secure a bottle of Swartland excellence with the Vulpes Chama Chenin Blanc 2024. The name “Chama” refers to the Cape fox, a nod to winemaker Nuschka de Vos whose surname means “the fox” in Dutch. She sources the fruit from two high-altitude Paardeberg vineyards with weathered granite soils. The Jakkalsfontein block, planted in 1986, and the “Sky” vineyard at 400m elevation provide the foundation. The wine shows a complex nose of white peach, pear, and citrus. You will also find notes of oatmeal, fennel, and flinty reduction. It delivers a laser-like minerality and a persistent, savory finish. This 2024 vintage earned 96 points from Christian Eedes and 94 points from Tim Atkin MW.
Nuschka de Vos follows a low-intervention philosophy at her boutique winery. She whole-bunch presses the grapes and allows for spontaneous fermentation. The Vulpes Chama Chenin Blanc 2024 matures in seasoned French oak barrels for 11 months. It sits on the gross lees until December to develop its signature texture and aromatic depth. This process creates a wine that is pure, precise, and tightly wound. Only 1,000 bottles exist for this specific release. It represents one of the most exciting new projects in the South African wine landscape today. The 2024 season offered perfect ripening conditions for these dryland bush vines.
The technical analysis highlights the incredible balance of this dry, energetic vintage. The wine remains remarkably fresh with a clean, pithy exit. It offers a profile that bridges the gap between artisanal craft and fine-wine sophistication.