Ken Forrester The FMC Chenin is a white wine produced by Ken Forrester Wines, located in the Stellenbosch region of South Africa. The wine is made from Chenin Blanc grapes, which are native to the Loire Valley in France but have found a second home in South Africa, where they are known for producing some of the world’s finest expressions of the grape.

Ken Forrester makes the top wines from South Africa and is called the ‘King of Chenin’ for a reason. He is committed to showcasing South Africa’s already established capability to make high-quality Chenin Blanc. Ken admits that it’s his favourite variety, although due to its adaptability and modest, shy nature, it is sometimes misconstrued. Yet, it creates wines that sing when properly instructed and exposed to just the appropriate amount of gentle sunlight. Definitely a difficult grape, but oh, so gratifying!

F*cking Marvellous (or Magic) Chenin*. That’s what FMC stands for, and that’s what it is. Before Ken Forrester made Chenin in South Africa, Chenin was a bland wine, with a bland history. Ken started controlling the yield, meaning better quality, healthier grapes giving higher flavour. He’s not a ‘natural’ wine producer per se, but his philosophy with the FMC is simple – the better the grape, the less you have to mess with it. If you drink one wine this month, make it this one.

*The official meaning is claimed to be Forrester Meinert Chenin, but who are we kidding?..

KEN FORRESTER FMC 2023 VINTAGE

In the glass, Ken Forrester The FMC Chenin has a bright golden colour with green highlights. The nose is complex and layered, with aromas of citrus, peach, honey, and toasted nuts. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a rich texture and a backbone of acidity that keeps it fresh and lively. Flavours of ripe pear, apricot, and tropical fruit are complemented by notes of vanilla and oak, leading to a long and satisfying finish.

It is an intense and full-flavoured white with a great balance of richness and freshness.  Rich and honeyed with plenty of ripe apple and dried apricot fruit. This is a wine that drinks very well immediately, but also will age well too.

In Ken’s own words, 2023 is one of the best FMCs he has produced.

TASTING NOTES
The pinnacle of what we consider to be the finest expression of the grapes of this varietal – an icon chenin, a challenge to the world! Rich, layered with dried apricot, vanilla and honey. Will gain additional complexity with cellaring.

FOOD SUGGESTIONS
Enjoy with special friends as an exciting aperitif or with spiced dishes, even mild seafood/shellfish or curries. Great with exotic Eastern spiced foods.

100% Chenin Blanc
Region: Stellenbosch
Soil: Clovelly soil, bush vines
Locality: South-south-west