VARIETAL: Chenin Blanc

ANALYSIS: Alc. 7.5% Vol | RS 352 g/l | pH 3.35 | TA 9.8 g/l

ORIGIN: Piekenierskloof

TASTING NOTE by Greg Sherwood MW

First produced in 2018, the 2021 is only the third release of this sweet straw wine elixir made from 100% Chenin Blanc grapes from vines grown on rocky sandstone soils in the Piekenierskloof. The grapes were dried for three weeks and then foot stomped for 5 days, before being basket pressed into a 225 litre barrel and glass demijohn for fermentation and ageing.

Made in incredibly small quantities, this specialty dessert wine offers up a profusion of fruit and floral aromatics ranging from dried apricots, honey, caramelized mango, tarte tatin and a hint of salted caramel. On the palate the wine is sumptuous and weightlessly silky soft, rolling over the tongue like melted honey infused with notes of dried peaches, crystallised mango and caramelized pineapples in liquor. Fabulously luxurious and decadent, this wine is also beautifully balanced with the perfect acid – sugar symmetry. Drink now and over the next 20+ years.

Wine Safari: 96/100 – Greg Sherwood MW