Stettyn Family Vineyards launch their new Shackleton Old Vine Chenin Blanc

I've heard the name Stettyn Family Vineyards, but have never ventured out to this 8th generation family wine farm, just outside Villiersdorp before. On Sunday, I took the scenic drive and was met with fresh oysters and cold wine and bubbly and a newly renovated tasting room. 

Stettyn has just released an old vine Chenin Blanc, named the Shackleton, after an SAAF aircraft, Shackleton 1718 that crashed in the Stettynsberg mountains in 1963, killing all 13 crew members. It was one of the most emotional wine launches I've attended, with the daughter of one of the Shackleton's aviation crew, Patricia, visiting the crash site and remembering her father. It wasn't all sombre, as Patricia expressed her gratitude in keeping history and memories alive through the Shackleton wine. The aviation thread continued with R10 of every bottle of the Shackleton sold, donated to the Friends of the SAAF Museum. It was a day of new experiences and closure.

This new Chenin is a special wine to the Stettyn team, with only 1500 bottles produced from the 35-year-old heritage vineyard. Top of their range, it still comes in at a steal, as with most of their wines, at under R250 a bottle. The detail on the bottle is beautiful.

Tasting a new Chenin and a very refreshing sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir, the Babelki, on one of the hottest days was a win. The tasting room is family- and pet-friendly with resident dog, Bacchus, welcoming guests. If you're looking for your next adventure, take a scenic drive over the Franschhoek Pass to experience some Stettyn hospitality.