Chenin is traditionally associated with cooler areas, yet
it thrives on good soils in the warm Swartland. The 2014 harvest was preceded
by a relatively cold and wet winter followed by late flowering, which gave our Chenin
the opportunity to ripen later in good dryland conditions – true to Spice Route’s
method of depending solely on rainfall to supply water to the vines.
The trellised vines are planted on a south-east facing
slope, and the soils are predominantly koffieklip, consisting of decomposed granite
and iron-rich clay. This soil gives a distinctive texture to the wine, while
supporting the roots with sufficient water from below.
Maintaining freshness is paramount, and Chenin requires specific
viticultural techniques under the Swartland sun. About half of the vineyard was
picked in mid-March, with the riper fruit being selected and fermented in
stainless steel to preserve freshness and elegance. The remaining bunches were
picked early in April, boasting fruit of great complexity and early signs of
botrytis. This second fraction was left to ferment spontaneously in 300-litre neutral
barrels.
The two fractions were aged on the lees for nine months
before blending. The first picking ensures freshness and elegance, while the
second picking provides texture and greater aromatic expression. Together they
create a perfectly harmonious wine.
“It’s
the first time we’ve harvested so late, but our patience paid off,” said
winemaker, Charl du Plessis. “Botrytis added a beautiful dimension to this fantastic grape variety,
which will benefit from three to four years in the bottle.”
The 2014 Chenin Blanc is available at the Spice Route Tasting Room, online at Yuppiechef.com, and at selected specialist outlets. The recommended retail price is R110.
For more
information about Spice Route Wines, please contact us on 021 863 5200 or email
info@spiceroute.co.za . For the latest
Spice Route news and updates, follow us on Twitter @SpiceRouteWines