The
geography, climate, mountains, rivers and varied geology all contribute to a
unique winemaking potential and this has essentially established the area as
the home of South African Chenin Blanc.
Chenin
Blanc represents 18% of all South Africa’s vineyards and the Breedekloof Wine
Valley has 15% of all Chenin Blanc plantings and supplies 21% or one-fifth of
all the wine made from Chenin in South Africa.
The
varietal has found its true home in this region, with deep alluvial soils
containing smooth river pebbles, which is ideally suited to Chenin Blanc. Chenin Blanc is probably the world’s most
versatile variety, ideally suited to many wine styles. This has prompted the Breedekloof
winemakers to produce small quantities of Chenin Blanc using innovative
winemaking methods and expressing terroirs, especially old vineyards, which has
resulted in the Breedekloof Chenin Blanc Initiative.
Nine
wineries, all members of the Breedekloof Wine Route, form part of this exciting
collaboration, and have all launched a 2014 vintage into the market:
- Bergsig Estate: Chenin Blanc Reserve
- Botha Cellar: Barrel Fermented Bush Vine Chenin Blanc
- Breeland: Chenin Blanc
- Deetlefs Estate: Reserve Chenin Blanc
- Goudini Wines: Mirabilis Regis-filia Chenin Blanc
- Lateganskop: Zahir Chenin Blanc
- Merwida: Chenin Blanc
- Opstal Estate: Carl Everson Chenin Blanc
- uniWines Vineyards: Daschbosch Steen
Still
in its infancy the initiative has already received positive feedback and
support from industry influencers such as Ken Forrester and Tim Atkin MW.
“We’re
thrilled about this initiative as we’ve found that by focusing on Chenin Blanc we
are able to lift the image of the entire Breedekloof Wine Valley and the
various styles of wines produced.
Although each winery was left to use their own discretion, expertise and
experience in producing a Chenin Blanc true to their nature, the initiative encouraged
camaraderie and info sharing amongst the role-players. The round table
discussions are imperative as they help raise the profile of the area as well
as promote superb quality wines from the Breedekloof Wine Valley,” says
Breedekloof Wine & Tourism CEO, Melody Botha.
For more information contact +27.23 349 1791 or visit www.breedekloof.com.