Leeu Passant 'Stellenbosch' Chardonnay 2019 100ml

Joining forces with visionary entrepreneur Analjit Singh, powerhouse winemaking duo Chris and Andrea Mullineux set out to celebrate the Western Cape's rich viticultural heritage by hunting down some of South Africa's oldest, most dramatic vineyards. Harnessing a minimalist, low-intervention approach in the cellar, they craft utterly transcendent, multi-award-winning allocations that pulsate with breathtaking terroir definition, structural poise, and a dazzlingly electric energy.

South African wine history began in the seventeenth century with Dutch settlers and later Huguenot influence. The Constantia estate once produced some of the world’s most prized sweet wines. After decades of isolation, the new era opened global markets and sparked a new wave of quality-focused producers. South Africa’s wine scene blends old world influence with new world energy, shaped by dramatic coastlines, mountain ranges and a warm Mediterranean climate. Its classification system is centred on the Wine of Origin scheme, which highlights geographic provenance across regions, districts and wards. This is a treasure-trove of grape varieties; Chenin Blanc is the country’s signature, delivering everything from fresh orchard-driven styles to richer, more textured expressions. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache and Pinotage define many of the reds, while Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc thrive in cooler coastal areas. From Stellenbosch to Swartland and Cape South Coast, South Africa champions diversity, sustainability and a confident sense of regional identity.

Stellenbosch is South Africa’s most established fine wine region and a reference point for quality and consistency. Set between mountains and the ocean, it benefits from varied soils and cooling influences that support a wide range of grapes. Cabernet Sauvignon is central to the region’s reputation, often forming the backbone of structured, ageworthy blends alongside Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Syrah also plays an important role, while Chenin Blanc remains a standout white with both depth and longevity. Winemaking here combines long-standing experience with modern precision, placing strong emphasis on vineyard expression. Stellenbosch is defined by balance, structure and a clear sense of confidence built over decades.