variety : Chenin Blanc [ 100% Chenin Blanc ]
winemaker : Tinus Els
wine of origin : Stellenbosch
analysis : alc : 14.0 % vol rs : 1.9 g/l pH : 3.47 ta : 5.2 g/l
type : White body : Full taste : Fruity wooded
pack : 0 size : 0 closure : 0
in the vineyard : The 2.0ha planting of Chenin Blanc is the oldest on the farm. Established in 1976, this single block is also one of the oldest in South Africa still used for vinification. Row and bunch selection of this single block make it possible to produce this Grand Vin Chenin Blanc. Situated in a cooler pocket of the farm with a southerly aspect and alongside a dam, the soils seldom require additional irrigation during the hot summer months. In special years the block is prone to a touch of carefully monitored Botrytis infection that promotes the production of high quality, intricately complex wine.
in the cellar : Yeast: Selected strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Vin 2000)
Fermentation: Fermentation started at 12-14°C in stainless steel tanks for 3 days and then transferred to new Acacia Barrels and 3rd Fill French oak to complete fermentation
Maceration: Skin contact limited to 3 hours
Malolactic fermentation: None
Maturation: Left on the healthy lees, in new Acacia and 3rd fill French oak barrels for 10 months, whilst performing battonage on a weekly basis for 3 months, then on a monthly basis
Fining: Bentonite, isinglass, PVPP and casein
Vintage: A vintage of slightly unusual weather patterns. Nonetheless, the Chenin Blanc vines prospered under dry ripening conditions that allowed a healthy delivery of grapes to the cellar.