A blend of 63% Chenin Blanc and 37% Verdelho.

A taut, energetic and linear vintage showing quince, greengage and grapefruit rind early on and notes of hay, oatmeal and yellower fruits as the wine uncoils. Freshness from the Verdelho’s green apple-like crunch adds edge and precision and leads to a finish that is dry and pithy.

The grapes were gently whole bunch basket-pressed without adding enzymes. Natural fermentation was allowed to take place in 400L, 300L and 225L French oak barrels. Some fine lees was added back to the juice to allow for more complex characters and textures to develop during its time in barrel. 10 months in old oak and no fining. Bottled in January 2024.

“This our most complex blend in the line-up, comprising fruit from seven different vineyards. Chenin Blanc grapes are sourced from dryland bush vines farmed in four sites; two older vineyards from the Paardeberg, one from the Piekenierskloof and a younger vineyard from Bot River. The Verdelho is from three vineyards, one in the Voor-Paardeberg, one in Bot River and one in Riebeekberg. The soils are a combination of granite, sandstone, schist and Bokkeveld shale. The decomposed granite soils produce a rich, generous and broader palate, while the shale and schist soils bring austerity, focus and make for a texture driven wine. The sandstone adds brightness and length. Blended together with the freshness of the Verdelho to create a balanced wine; both rich and generous yet elegant and well poised, with a mineral focus and bright acidity.” – Marelise Niemann

ANALYSIS: ALC 13.5% | RS 1.9 g/l | TA 6.7 g/l | pH 3.25