Chenin blanc is the most widely planted wine grape in South Africa. In fact, there’s more chenin blanc planted in South Africa than there is in the rest of the world, according to Jim Clarke of Wines of South Africa. So there are many good bottles to choose from.

   South African chenin is made in a variety of styles: dry, sweet, sparkling, fortified. It’s even used for distillation. Within the dry category, chenin blanc can be fresh and fruity, or richer, with some oak influence.

   You don’t need to spend much for a nice example of the fresh, fruity style. Case in point: this Secateurs, the entry-level offering from AA Badenhorst. The wine is spicy and a little smoky, with round white fruit and racy acidity. It comes from the warm, dry growing area of Swartland and is made from old bush vines that are dry farmed. 

   The Secateurs Chenin Blanc sells for around $20. The 2024 is still available in many stores, although the 2025 is starting to show up. Either vintage is a reliable pick.