The Producer

Alvi’s Drift is a family-owned estate in the Scherpenheuwel ward of Worcester, nestled in the Breede River Valley. The story begins in 1928 when patriarch Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe acquired farmland on the banks of the Breede River. Today, the estate is run by his grandson — also Alvi — a medical doctor who returned from the UK and Canada to take the reins. With winemakers Henk Swart and Linley Schultz, and Alvi’s Cape Wine Master spouse Junel, this is a team that consistently delivers. Alvi’s Drift holds the Vineyard Consistency Award at the National Wine Challenge — ranked South Africa’s number one estate with 62 winning wines over 15 years.

Vintage & Terroir

The 221 Chenin Blanc draws from the estate’s 410 hectares of vineyards in the cooler southern reaches of the Breede River Valley. The terroir is remarkably diverse — decomposed granite, red Karoo soil, shale, limestone, and sandy loam — all cooled by the valley’s unique microclimate. The 2024 vintage delivered ripe, aromatic Chenin with the natural freshness that has made this wine 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, approximately 25% of the wine was wild-yeast fermented and aged in older French oak barrels to add complexity and depth. The balance is fermented cool in stainless steel to preserve bright fruit and crisp acidity. The result is a layered Chenin with both richness and refreshment.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Pale straw with golden highlights.

Nose: Inviting aromas of ripe peach, lemon, and honeysuckle with a flinty, mineral undertone.

Palate: Richly textured with ripe stone fruit, quince, and citrus flavours. The oak component adds a subtle toasty dimension, while well-integrated acidity keeps the wine fresh and lively. Refreshing and layered.

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.

Technical Details

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.