The Producer
Alvi’s Drift is a family-owned estate in the Scherpenheuwel ward of Worcester, in the Breede River Valley. The story began in 1928, when patriarch Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe first planted vines on the banks of the Breede River. Today his grandson, Alvi — a medical doctor who returned from the UK and Canada to take the reins — runs the estate alongside winemakers Henk Swart and Linley Schultz, and Cape Wine Master Junel. This Chenin Blanc case is a chance to taste that family consistency for yourself.
Vintage & Terroir
The 221 Chenin Blanc draws from Alvi’s Drift’s vineyards in the cooler southern reaches of the Breede River Valley, where the terroir is remarkably diverse — decomposed granite, red Karoo soil, shale, limestone, and sandy loam — all tempered by the valley’s unique microclimate. This bottling is the 2026 vintage, continuing the freshness and ripe aromatics that have made 221 a perennial favourite. The “221” name honours Oupa Alvi, the 221st Springbok, who scored the first try in history against the All Blacks on African soil.
In the Cellar
A blend of barrel-matured and fresh tank-fermented Chenin Blanc, with around 25% wild-yeast fermented in older French oak barrels for complexity and depth. The remainder ferments cool in stainless steel to preserve bright fruit and crisp acidity — together giving a wine with both richness and refreshment.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Pale straw with a youthful green-gold hue.
Nose: Inviting aromas of ripe peach, lemon, and honeysuckle with a flinty, mineral undertone.
Palate: Richly textured with ripe stone fruit, quince, and citrus, the oak component adding a subtle toasty note against well-integrated acidity.
Finish: Long and crisp, with tangy citrus and a savoury, mineral close.
Food Pairing
A versatile food wine — brilliant alongside grilled linefish with lemon butter, a creamy chicken and mushroom pie, or roasted butternut soup. It also pairs beautifully with a Cape Malay curry or a fresh pear and blue cheese salad. Serve at 8–10°C. Order your case and keep the Tribe fed.
Technical Details
| Vintage | 2026 |
| Region | Breede River Valley, Western Cape |
| Grape(s) | Chenin Blanc |
| Oak | ~25% aged in older French oak barrels |
| Closure | Screw cap |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Case Size | 6 bottles |
Our Guarantee
Every case of Alvi’s Drift 221 Chenin Blanc is backed by our 100% Happiness Assured! Guarantee. If you’re not completely delighted, get in touch and we’ll make it right — no fuss, no fine print, just great wine and happy customers.
