The Foundry Roussanne 2021 Coastal Region, South Africa 75cl

Chris Williams built The Foundry around the Rhone varieties he loves, working with minimal intervention from his cellar on the Voor-Paardeberg. Made in tiny quantities, his wines ferment spontaneously and age in a mix of vessels, from concrete and old oak to amphora, so that they stay honest and true to their place. The grapes ferment spontaneously with little or no added sulphur, and his whites in particular have earned a real following among Cape wine lovers.

Roussanne is a wine Williams rates among his very best whites, and it is easy to see why so few growers attempt it. The variety is low yielding and tricky in the cellar, but barrel fermentation and ageing build texture and weight while holding on to its exotic aromatics and natural precision.

This is the 2021, at 13.5% alcohol. We do not hold a full vintage report for the bottling, so the tasting note leans on the wine in the glass rather than weather claims we cannot stand behind.

The nose is generous, with honeysuckle, citrus peel and a hint of almond. Barrel work gives a broad, creamy palate that stays fresh and savoury through a long finish. It is the kind of white that flatters food rather than shouting for attention.

This is one for lovers of serious Rhone whites and barrel-aged Chenin alike. Serve it lightly chilled with roast chicken, pork, a creamy risotto or a plate of hard cheese, and give it a little time in the glass to open.