Rijk's Chenin Blanc Private Cellar 2019
It's a little known fact, but a fact all the same, that South African Chenin Blanc wines are among the world's finest.
The two main areas in the world where Chenin Blanc is grown are in the Loire Valley in France and in the Cape Winelands, South Africa.
France has 10,000 ha and the Cape has 20,000 ha planted. It is believed that the first plantings of Chenin Blanc in South Africa were made by the French Huguenots, fleeing France after the Edict of Nantes in 1685 and emigrating to the Cape.
Winemaker Pierre Wahl
Medium to full bodied white wine. Fruit driven food wine.
Grapes were night harvested; picked by hand to retain flavours.
Grapes were gently crushed and pressed. This wine was fermented in 40% new French and Hungarian oak and 60% in 2nd and 3rd fill French and Hungarian 300 litre oak barrels. 30% was fermented with natural yeast. Wine was aged for 11 months before racked and blended.
Tasting Notes:
This wine has intense yellow fruit aromas of ripe peach, nectarines and orange blossoms. These aromas carry through onto a creamy palate that finishes with a lively acidity with hints of almonds and a leesy complexity. Excellent ageing potential and superb versatility with a wide variety of dishes complete this irresistible package.
Best Enjoyed:
Vegetarian Dishes. Also try with spicy food, mild and soft cheeses. Seafood and shellfish.
Ageing Potential:
8 Years after vintage at consistent temperatures of between 14°C and 17°C.
Serving Temperature:
Recommended to be served at 14°C.
