Chenin Blanc 2023 - Boschendal 1685

Wine of Origin South Africa, Coastal Region.

The grapes come from a selection of specific locations in the foothills of the Helderberg, Polkadraai and Faure in Stellenbosch, predominantly planted on weathered granite soils. Here the vines are exposed to the elements from the afternoon sea breeze from False Bay. This has a dramatic effect on the quality of the wines produced, as it allows for extended ripening times while retaining the grapes’ natural acidity, resulting in increased longevity. The average age of the vineyards ranges from 12 to 28 years and they are located at an altitude of between 100 and 250 metres above sea level.

The grapes are hand-picked at optimum ripeness during the cool of the early morning and selected upon arrival at the cellar before pressing. The average sugar content of the grapes at the time of harvest is around 22-23°B, allowing for a mature and full-bodied wine. 20% of the wine is fermented in Foudre and remains in these containers after fermentation for up to 6 weeks on the lees. This component broadens the palate and gives a creamy note to the wine. The juice is left to ferment with part of the lees at 16°C, which improves its fullness. Bâtonnage, the stirring of the lees, takes place weekly, allowing for increased richness and complexity of this South African Chenin Blanc.