South Africa, Stellenbosch
Chenin Blanc
Awards
- This wine has not yet received a recognition
Tasting Notes
Alcohol
13.5%
Analytical data
dry
Vinification
To best preserve purity of fruit, berry bunches are hand-harvested in the early morning and whole bunch pressed directly to concrete eggs for natural fermentation. The concrete eggs are neutral in flavour and allow the wine to remain vibrant and to express itself fully. Old vines are not necessarily fruit forward but often bring tremendous layers and complexity to the palate.
Vineyard
VINEYARD The wine is made up from using 2 different “old vine” vineyards in Stellenbosch. The oldest planted in 1966 and the second one being planted in 1974. Both vineyards are bush vines which add great complexity to Chenin blanc. VINTAGE REVIEW 2019 Drought still playing a huge roll on the vintage, a dry and warm winter hindering the dormancy period which is vital for even growth and survival, Chardonnay being most affected resulting in only a 50% yield this vintage. Across the board we experienced an average of 30% drop in yield. Berries at harvest time were tiny and highly concentrated in flavor, and due to relatively cool and dry summer weather, the wines also ended up with low alcohols and softer acidities.
Soil Type
Another tough vintage for South African wineries as severe drought conditions continue. Early ripening varietals more affected as they are harvested in the middle of summer, with later ones being hardier during this period. Whites and blanc de Noir have surprised with good freshness and the reds show great promise with lower alcohols.
Viticulture
Waterford Estate has been working with Chenin Blanc grapes since 1999. Along the journey, a French winemaker from the world-famous Chenin Blanc region of the Loire valley, Cedric Lecareux, joined the Waterford team for the 2001 vintage. Here the true excitement of Chenin Blanc began for Waterford. Our Chenin Blanc grapes are sourced from Old Vines in Stellenbosch. The oldest were originally planted in 1966.
