South Africa, Stellenbosch
Chenin Blanc
Description
Hand selected Chenin Blanc – primarily from low yielding, old bush vines (planted in 1974). Harvested at full maturity. Natural wild yeast fermentation in new French oak 400L barrels. Due to repetitive harvesting some botrytis is always present. Maturation on the lees – total of 12 months in the barrel. 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.
Awards
93 pts Tim Atkin
Double Gold National Wine Challenge
4.5 stars Platter's South African Wine Guide
Gold Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show
Tasting Notes
Certificates
Alcohol
13.0%
Analytical data
semi-dry
Vinification
Natural wild yeast fermentation in new French oak 400L barrels. Due to repetitive harvesting some botrytis is always present. Maturation on the lees – total of 12 months in the barrel.
Vineyard: Stellenbosch
Our vineyards are based in the maritime region of Stellenbosch, within 7km of the cold Atlantic Ocean. Typically hot, dry summers and long, wet winters. This special location in the shadow of the Helderberg, along the beautiful coastal edge of Stellenbosch is where the climate mimics the Mediterranean and Southern Rhone climate.
Soil Type
Duplex soils, sandy material on a ferricrete bank on patches of deeper clay.
Viticulture
Primarily from a vineyard planted in 1974, with no trellis system, hence “goblet” or bush vines. This vineyard produces very limited yields and by passing through the vineyard to make 7-8 selections of fruit across a 4/5-week window, we truly capture the essence of this fantastic site. Yield: 5-6 tons per hectare.
Maturation
Maturation on the lees – total of 12 months in the barrel.
