Ernst Gouws & Co – Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch – 2023

PRODUCER NOTE:
Ernst Gouws & Co. is a family-owned business in the heart of Stellenbosch, South Africa. Synonymous with producing quality South African wines which are rich in heritage, tradition and driven by a profound passion for wine and family values. In 1975, a dapper and enthusiastic Ernst travelled to Europe, under his father’s instructions not to return to South Africa until he had mastered the art of winemaking. During his voyage of discovery to France and Germany he missed his childhood sweetheart, Gwenda and invited her to visit. After falling madly in love, they decided to marry there and then. Forty years later, three children and many Gouws grandchildren later, Ernst and Gwenda still run the family business alongside their three children, Ezanne, Ernst Jnr and Inke. They are accredited to the Wine Industry Ethical Trade Association and hold the Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) certification.

VINEYARD:
Ernst subscribes to the French philosophy that the quality of the grape is inextricably linked to the “terroir”, so he travels to various regions throughout the Western Cape and handpicks his grapes in the areas where they naturally grow at their very best. This wine was made from old bush vines, who send their roots deep into the soil, in search of nutrients, which leads to added complexity in the resulting wine. The vines are grown in sustainably certified vineyards.

WINEMAKING:
The hand-picked grapes were crushed, destemmed and cooled to 10°C. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at cool temperatures. The wine then spent four months on its fine lees, which imparted texture and complexity to the wine. Made in an unoaked style, to showcase the purity of fruit.

TASTING NOTE:
This light, fruity and fresh Chenin Blanc starts quietly, building into a glorious mouthful of mixed citrus flavours of ruby grapefruit and lime. The zippy acidity and lower alcohol make this a delicious all day, every day wine.

GRAPE:
Chenin Blanc 100%.

COUNTRY:
South Africa

REGION:
Western Cape

SUB-REGION:
Stellenbosch