COLOUR
White
TYPE
Dessert
VINTAGE
2024
GRAPE
Chenin Blanc
PRODUCER
Mullineux Family Wines
REGION
Western Cape
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Full
Sweetness
Sweet
Acidity
High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Mullineux Straw Wine is a dessert wine crafted from 100% Chenin Blanc grapes in the Swartland region of South Africa. The wine's distinctiveness stems from a traditional method of drying grapes in the shade for two to four weeks, which concentrates their sugars, acids, and flavors. This process is akin to Italian 'passito' or French 'vin de paille' styles. The grapes are sourced from old vine Chenin Blanc vineyards, with an average age of 39 to 43 years, planted on Kasteelberg's schist and Paardeberg's granite soils. Mullineux Family Wines, founded in 2007 by Chris and Andrea Mullineux, is dedicated to expressing the Swartland's unique terroir through sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking. The winery has received significant acclaim, including multiple Platter's South African Winery of the Year awards.
ALCOHOL
7.5%
AVG. PRICE
€45
STYLE
Classic
VEGAN
YES
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
8-11°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Grapes are dried in the shade for 2-4 weeks, concentrating flavors.
Fact 02
Vine age averages over 40 years, contributing to intensity.
Fact 03
Fermentation uses indigenous yeasts for a natural expression.
Fact 04
Production is minuscule, making it a rare find.
FOOD PAIRING
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WINE MAKING PROCESS
The winemaking process for Mullineux Straw Wine begins with hand-harvesting Chenin Blanc grapes at normal ripeness. These grapes are then laid outdoors in the shade for two to four weeks to desiccate, concentrating their sugars, acids, and flavors. The shriveled grapes are subsequently crushed and pressed whole-bunch. Fermentation takes place in old 225-liter French oak barrels, initiated by natural, indigenous yeasts, and can extend for up to eleven months. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for twelve months in similar old French oak barrels (minimum 5th fill). Production volumes are intentionally kept small, with the drying process significantly reducing the yield per hectare.
