Craven Chardonnay 2023

Mick and Jeanine Craven embody the artisanal, natural spirit of the Cape wine scene. Their wines, crafted from single vineyard, single varietal grapes exclusively within the Stellenbosch region, are known for their minimal intervention and subtle elegance.

Neal Martin of Vinous aptly describes them as “minimal intervention, subtle wines that are as much about texture as aromas and flavours.” He further emphasizes that they “flirt with edginess and ‘funk’ but rarely cross that line so that Craven’s wines avoid falling into the trap of tasting like a philosophy.” Simply put, “They just taste…good.”

Since their inception in 2013, Craven Wines have evolved significantly. The move to their own cellar has brought about increased consistency and stability, resulting in purer, more focused, and detailed wines.

The Cravens are dedicated to showcasing the unique terroir of Stellenbosch. This commitment is reflected in their increasing use of concrete for aging, with The Firs Syrah joining the Karibib Chenin Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Cinsaut in concrete tanks in 2023. They believe concrete enhances the wines’ structure, fruit expression, and texture while allowing for gentle oxygenation.

With a deep respect for the vineyards and a focus on purity, freshness, and balance, Mick and Jeanine Craven are producing some of the most exciting wines emerging from Stellenbosch today.