Aaldering Florence White Blend 2024 Western Cape, South Africa 75cl

Some of the most enjoyable wines at Aaldering wear the Florence label, the estate’s youthful, easygoing range. The idea is simple: bright, well-made blends to open often rather than save. This white pairs two grapes that pull in different directions, letting the winemaker balance zip against weight.

The blend is roughly three-quarters Sauvignon Blanc to a quarter Chardonnay, sourced across the Western Cape. The Sauvignon brings floral lift, quince and granadilla, while the barrel-fermented Chardonnay adds citrus blossom, lemon curd and body. Fruit was picked at three ripeness stages, with the Chardonnay aged ten months in barrel before blending.

2024 was a very cool growing season, which led to concentrated fruit and ideal levels of natural acidity, a real gift for a blend built on freshness. The cool character gives the wine its bright, precise line, while the barrel-aged Chardonnay component fills out the middle for balance.

Pale and light with a faint yellow hue. Floral notes, quince and granadilla lead the nose, with citrus blossom and lemon curd underneath. On the palate the Sauvignon’s racy acidity is tempered by the fuller Chardonnay, clean fruit carrying through to a lingering, mineral finish. Best enjoyed within three years of the vintage.

It plays in similar territory to a fresh white Bordeaux blend, where Sauvignon energy meets a rounder partner. Serve it with creamy pasta dishes or lightly grilled line fish. Delicate and clean, it is an unshowy but rewarding white for weekend lunches or easy entertaining at home, and it never overstays its welcome.