Delheim,
the notable wine estate of the Sperling family outside Stellenbosch, has
introduced its brand new Family Chenin Blanc 2014 to the local wine scene – an
eloquent, lightly wooded rendition of this faithful varietal.
Just
in time for summer celebrations, this newcomer steps up a notch from the more
easy-drinking breed of Chenins and garners respect as a naturally fermented
white with well-rounded ripeness, fresh acidity and complex flavours.
“Our
naturally fermented Family Chenin Blanc 2014 depicts an elegant and more
refined taste of South Africa’s most widely planted varietal. The wine offers
greater depth and complexity with a deliciously viscous mouth feel,” share
winemaker Reg Holder.
The
grapes stem from two separate vineyard sites, which were harvested three weeks
apart. The one lies 400 metres above sea level on a south eastern slope at
Delheim, ideal for attaining full ripeness, whilst the other vineyard thrives
in deep, rich soils on Delheim’s Vera Cruz Estate on Klapmutskop, which lies approximately
three kilometres from Delheim. These two idyllic terroirs impart an intense
aromatic fruitiness and full-bodied structure to the wine.
The
grapes were whole-bunch pressed and then naturally fermented. 60% of the juice
spent six months in French oak barrels, whilst the balance spent the same time
period on the primary lees in 50 year old concrete tanks.
“The
idea of the wine is to give expression to the cultivar and terroir. The wood
integration is delicate and the wine shows a silky richness without
compromising on its fresh fruit appeal,” adds Holder.
The
wine exudes a fresh green tinge, with stone fruit and grapefruit dominant on
the nose enhanced with subtle savoury and oak nuances. The palate shows
restraint with lengthy tannins and sweet fruit contributing to a lingering
aftertaste.
This
Delheim Family Chenin Blanc 2014 is at its best within three to five years of
vintage date and is quintessentially the chosen accompaniment for a hot
summer’s day. Enjoy it slightly chilled as an aperitif or try it with pasta
with blue cheese and walnut or spicy prawns. This wine complements seafood,
traditional curries and Thai dishes exceptionally well.
The Delheim Family
Chenin Blanc 2014 retails at R105 per bottle and is available directly from the
estate or at selected boutique wine shops.
For
more information or direct wine orders contact Delheim Estate at Tel:
021 888 4600 or send an email to info@delheim.com.