Craig Hawkins has been making skin-contact Chenin Blanc in the Swartland since long before orange wine became a familiar sight on wine lists. His Testalonga project, which he runs alongside his wife Carla, has become one of South Africa's most celebrated independent wineries. Craig has always preferred wines with freshness, texture and a real sense of place, rather than power or extraction.

Stay Brave comes from Chenin Blanc bush vines planted in 1981 on the decomposed granite soils of the Paardeberg. For the 2025, the grapes spend 14 days fermenting on their skins before being pressed and aged for 11 months on lees in fibreglass tanks. No oak here, allowing the fruit and the lovely natural texture from the skins to do all the talking.

A beautiful light golden colour, with notes of fresh apple, orange peel, ginger and a little spice. There's a gentle chalky grip on the palate, plenty of acidity and a wonderfully dry finish.

One of those orange wines that reminds us why we love the category so much. Interesting enough for the curious drinker, but incredibly easy to enjoy with a good meal.