Circumstance Chenin Blanc 2014 by Waterkloof

ageing : 

2 - 5 years

Circumstance Chenin Blanc is produced from low yielding, bush vines, situated approximately 4km as the crow flies from the ocean. These conditions ensure a cooler and longer growing season and allow for ripe fruit with good concentration and a higher natural acidity. The soils are of sandstone origin with medium-sized stones, helping with drainage. They also have a very good ability to retain moisture. Production was approximately 4 t/ha. At Waterkloof we use organic and biodynamic methods based on Old World, sustainable practices in our vineyards to ensure that the vines are nourished, healthy and in balance. Our soils are free of chemicals and are kept healthy by using plant extracts, fungi and bacteria from our own organic compost.

The winemaking philosophy is the same for all of Waterkloof’s premium white wines. We follow a traditional, minimalistic approach which means that we interfere as little as possible with the winemaking process. This allows the flavours prevalent in that specific vineyard to be expressed. To achieve this, all grapes are hand-picked to ensure only flawless berries are brought in to the cellar by our horses. They are then sorted and whole bunch pressed so that we extract the juice in the gentlest way possible. The juice is then settled for 24 hours without the use of enzymes. Naturally present wild yeast occurring on the grapes is allowed to ferment the juice. This leads to a longer fermentation with a slow release of aromas and a more structured palate. The wine fermented in 600L barrels for 5 months and was then left on the gross lees for a further 4 months before bottling. We do not add acid or enzymes during the winemaking process, with only a light filtration and a small addition of sulphur as a preservative prior to bottling. 4100 Bottles Produced