Stellenbosch 1679 Bush Vine Chenin Blanc

This Bush Vine Chenin Blanc was made from Single Block selected grapes from the farm Sonop, Stellenbosch. The vines, with rootstock Richter 99, were planted in 1982 by Francois du Bois. The soil type, which is derived mainly from granite, is reddish to yellow in colour, acidic with good physical and water-retention properties; mainly Oakleaf, Tukulu and Clovelly soil types.

Phenolic ripe grapes were harvested, cold soaked for 6 hours on the skins. Using only the free run juice, fermentation was initiated in stainless steel tanks and halfway through fermentation transferred to new French oak barrels, where it finished its primary fermentation. Secondary fermentation and aging for 312 days in 100% new French oak barrels.

The wine boasts a bouquet of yellow apples, white pear and hints of honey, with an appealing freshness on the finish.