AA Badenhorst Secateurs Chenin Blanc

AA Badenhorst Secateurs Chenin Blanc captures the wild beauty of South Africa’s Swartland region. Crafted from old, dry-farmed bush vines by Adi Badenhorst — one of the country’s most visionary winemakers — it’s a vibrant, textural white that celebrates authenticity, generosity and the soul of its rugged terroir.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Fresh aromas of peach, green apple, and orange blossom lead into a lively palate of quince, ripe pear and citrus zest. Hints of honey and lemon curd weave through a creamy lees texture, while bright acidity and mineral salinity add drive and precision. The finish is pure, balanced and subtly nutty — an elegant echo of Swartland sun and stone.

Key Details

• Winery: AA Badenhorst Family Wines
• Varietal: Chenin Blanc
• Region: Swartland, South Africa
• Vintage: 2024
• Alcohol: 13%
• Volume: 750 ml
• Other: Vegan-Friendly; Sustainable Practices

Craftsmanship & Story

Adi Badenhorst revived a forgotten 1930s cellar on Kalmoesfontein farm to create wines that honour Swartland’s heritage. Fruit for Secateurs is hand-picked from 28 small parcels of granite-soiled vineyards, many planted in the 1960s. Fermented naturally in concrete and old oak vessels, it’s a blend of artistry and honesty — vivid fruit, gentle lees texture, and a distinct mineral edge that could only come from Swartland.

Special Features

Made from low-yielding, un-irrigated old bush vines and fermented with native yeasts in old foudres and concrete tanks. This minimal-intervention approach creates exceptional purity, texture and balance — a true benchmark for South African Chenin Blanc.

Recognition & Accolades

Celebrated internationally for its depth, freshness and value, Secateurs has become a global ambassador for modern Swartland winemaking.

• 95/100 Points – Decanter (2024 vintage)
• 91/100 Points – James Suckling (2024 vintage)
• 91/100 Points – Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate (2024 vintage)
• 90/100 Points – Tim Atkin MW, South Africa Report (2024 vintage)
• 90/100 Points – Natalie MacLean (2024 vintage)
• 92/100 Points – Mike Bennie, The Wine Front (2023 vintage)
• 90/100 Points – Wine Spectator (2023 vintage)
• 88/100 Points – Neal Martin, Vinous (2023 vintage)

These awards affirm its status as one of the world’s great Chenin Blanc values and a pillar of Swartland craftsmanship.

Food Pairings

Versatile and vibrant, this Chenin Blanc pairs beautifully with creamy chicken and leek pie or pork scaloppine with lemon-herb sauce. It shines with grilled prawns, pan-seared halibut or Thai coconut curries, where its bright acidity cuts through richness and its honey-almond depth balances gentle spice. Also superb with goat cheese tarts or mushroom risotto — a true culinary chameleon.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

Elegant yet approachable, this old-vine Chenin offers superb craftsmanship and generous charm — an ideal gift for those who appreciate authentic, world-class wines with soul.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.