WELVILLE
Old Vine Chenin Blanc
The name was inspired by the old health clinic that was built on the farm in the 1930's. Patients, mostly from Cape Town, spent weeks on the farm recovering from respiratory complications.
For the WELVILLE Old Vine Chenin Blanc I used fruit from vineyards planted in 1992. The clone is SN424. The block is 130m above sea-level, and is North-East facing with North to South row direction. The soils are a combination of decomposed shale with a clay / loam base.
VINEYARDS
The WELVILLE OLD VINE CHENIN BLANC gets its name from the old health clinic that was built on the farm in the 1930’s. Patients, mostly from Cape Town, spent weeks on the farm recovering from respiratory complications.
In addition to the dry climate, thought to be beneficial to the patients, the farm also supplied the patients with organic fruit and vegetables during their recovery time on the property.
Block A and B were planted in 1992 and the clone is SN 424. The Block is 130m above sea-level, North-East facing with North to South row direction. The soils are a combination of decomposed shale with a clay / loam base.
WINEMAKING
The Chenin Blanc was harvested by hand early in the morning and immediately pressed. No enzymes were used on the grapes or juice. We settled the juice for 48 hours before moving the cloudy juice to the two barrels; the barrels being 5th and 6th fill respectively.
Fermentation was done wild and between 16ºC to 18ºC. Fermentation took 14 days, after which the wine was left on the thick lees for 12 months, with battonage undertaken once a month.
TASTING
Appearance – A pale yellow colour with a clear, bright edge.
Nose – A beautifully vibrant aroma of orange blossoms and a grapefruit note is complemented by a hint of richness, balanced against a fresh acidity.
Palate – The approach shows a citrus richness with notes of orange marmalade, kumquat and grapefruit that lead to an aromatic Oriental vibrancy with flavours of Yuzu, ending in a lingering floral elegance.
PAIRING
This Chenin Blanc is quite special, in that the Old Vine yield less fruit, yet has excellent concentration. Paired with a gruyere salad with grilled nectarines, or buttery west-coast sole is an option for summer, while Peking duck, hearty roasted root vegetable dishes or marmalade glazed gammon will be perfect for winter.
DETAILS
100% Chenin Blanc | Mid-full | 7 ton / ha | 07.02.2023 | 2 X 225L |
580 Bottles | 7ºC - 14ºC | 10 - 15 Years | Bordeaux White | Not Advised |
ANALYSIS
13.56% VOL | 2.9 g/l | 6.6 g/l | 0.44 g/l | 3.13 |
TASTING NOTES
Welville 2023 Tasting Note
Welville 2022 Tasting Note
