Few wines have played a bigger role in changing the perception of South African wine than Testalonga's Skin. Craig Hawkins began experimenting with skin-contact Chenin Blanc when the style was almost unheard of in the country, and his early wines were famously rejected by the authorities for not fitting the established rules. Nearly two decades later, Craig and Carla's Testalonga project is recognised around the world, and Skin remains one of their most important wines.

The 2025 comes from Chenin Blanc vines planted in 1972 in the Paardeberg. Over the years, Craig has refined his approach to skin contact, gradually reducing maceration times to achieve more elegance and precision. This vintage spends 14 days on skins, enough to develop beautiful texture and complexity while retaining the freshness that makes these wines so special.

Honeysuckle, ripe peach, apricot, ginger and a little beeswax, with the lovely herbal character of the Swartland running through it. The palate has wonderful depth, initially creamy and generous before finishing dry, savoury and beautifully fresh.

A benchmark South African skin-contact wine, and a bottle that shows just how fascinating Chenin Blanc can become in the right hands.

97 Points | Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za