The 2009 La Beryl Chenin Blanc straw wine was inspired by Michel Chapoutier’s vin de paille. It has an intense honey and toffee-scented bouquet with a sweet unctuous, slightly cloying palate that coats the mouth. But it needs more tension to merit a higher score.Based in Paarl, Fairview is one of South Africa’s historic names, synonymous with the Back family who bought the estate in 1937. They produce a range of well-priced, mainly Rhone inspired wines under the watchful eye of winemaker Anthony de Jager. They also produce the ever-popular entry level La Capra and Goats do Roam range that were tasted for this report, but not all made the grade.Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, Alabama. Tel 205-949-6262.