This is Ken Forrester's flagship wine - and one of the bottles that helped put South African Chenin Blanc back on the global map. The name FMC (Forrester Meinert Chenin) is tied to the original collaboration behind the wine, though it's become known simply as a benchmark expression of the grape. It's made from old bush vines (some planted in the 1970s), which naturally produce lower yields but more concentrated fruit.
The winemaking is key: fermentation and ageing take place in French oak, giving the wine a level of texture and complexity that sets it apart from fresher, simpler Chenin styles.
What defines FMC is its richness combined with precision. This is not a light, crisp Chenin - it's full-bodied and layered, but still balanced by acidity so it never feels heavy. The oak is clearly present, but integrated, adding creaminess and spice rather than dominating. The profile leans into baked apple, apricot, quince, citrus curd, and honey, often with subtle notes of almond, vanilla, and spice from the oak. There's also a slightly waxy texture typical of top Chenin Blanc, which gives it weight without losing clarity. With time, it develops further complexity - moving towards nutty, toasty, and more savoury notes, making it a wine that can age well rather than just being consumed young.
Overall, this is a serious, world-class white wine, sitting closer in style to top white Burgundy or Loire Chenin than to everyday examples - rich, structured, and built for both immediate enjoyment and ageing.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
Intense and layered, with apricot, quince, citrus curd, honey, and subtle spice
Palate:
Full-bodied and textured, with stone fruit, vanilla, almond, and a creamy, integrated oak profile
Finish:
Long and complex, with freshness balancing the richness and a lingering, refined close
