KWV Chenin Blanc 2023

This wine is a great example of modern-styled, South African Chenin blanc and shows true elegance. On the nose it displays prominent aromas of apple, guava and passion fruit. The palate is well-rounded and juicy with hints of vibrant, fresh pear which has a lingering after taste.

Soil in the Western Cape comprises ancient (350 million to 500 million years old) weathered soils of alluvial and volcanic origin. The alluvial soils are from both glacial and marine deposits. Some of the origins of the weathered soils are Table Mountain Sandstone, Granite and Malmesbury Shale. These have eroded over millennia and are now generally clay rich loam soils, which are most desirable for their ability to retain water for plant during summer months.

The 2019 season showed great promise with improved winter rains. However, variable weather conditions, with continuous temperature fluctuations, resulted in inconsistent bud break, uneven flowering and set. Followed by slow and uneven ripening. Reds were most affected and overall yields were down. White varieties, except for the lower yields on Sauvignon Blanc, were as expected. The challenges are not without rewards: whites are bright and flavourful with good aromatics. Reds have soft tannins with rich fruit and generosity.

To ensure a fresh fruit driven style Chenin blanc the grapes were picked at optimum ripeness in the cool of the morning. Crushing was slow and gentle followed by a gentle pressing. This was followed by 2 hours skin contact to extract maksimum fruit flavours and a gentle pressing. The juice was settled overnight and racked to the fermentation tanks. Specific yeast was selected for each fermentation batch to ensure maximum flavour development. Fermentation was done in stainless steel tanks at 13 to 14°C to preserve freshness and fruit flavours. No malolactic fermentation was allowed to ensure optmimum freshness and fruit.

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Enjoy this wine on its own or with a variety of salads, sushi, seafood and white meats. Like Chenin blanc in general, it is best enjoyed when chilled.