Wild Garden – Chenin Blanc – 2023/24

PRODUCER NOTE:
Produced in the Wild Garden that is the Cape Coast of South Africa, the duo of wines in the small but perfectly formed Wild Garden range, showcases the classic South African grape varieties. The Pinotage is South Africa’s signature grape variety with an easy drinking fruity style, while the Chenin Blanc with its fresh fruity flavours is very quaffable indeed.

VINTAGE:
Vintage 2023 – Generally, winter was dry and warm with budbreak occurring early, around seven to 10 days earlier than usual. Spring and early summer growing conditions were favourable, with abundant rains just before véraison helping fruit quality. A cool and wet summer prolonged ripening and harvest during the 2023 vintage. The region benefited from the absence of heatwaves, resulting in good quality fruit, albeit slightly lower quantity in 2023. While the white varieties generally produced lower yields compared to 2022, the quality is good, with lovely aromatics. A classic style from a cooler vintage.

VINEYARD:
The grapes come from carefully selected vineyards in the Swartland and Pederberg in the Cape Coast region. This hot, dry climate has an average temperature range of 25°C to 35°C and an annual rainfall of 450mm and 600mm, but the altitude of these vineyards creates a cool oasis in this arid landscape. The Atlantic Ocean lies around 20 miles to the west and this has a significant cooling and moderating effect on the climate. The rolling hills average around 140 metres above sea level, however, the superior influence on the wine is from the various soil formations, namely shale, schist, granite and iron stone. These ancient soils vary greatly in the percentage of clay, mineral content and organic matter. This Chenin Blanc is from a combination of these soils, which adds layers of fruit and complexity. Exposure to spring and summer winds create a healthy environment with little intervention needed to keep the vines healthy.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes were fermented with selected yeasts in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks to retain the bright and aromatic characteristics of the Chenin Blanc variety, through to dryness. Malolactic conversion did not take place, resulting in a crisp style of wine.

TASTING NOTE:
Fresh and aromatic, this easy-drinking Chenin Blanc shows gentle aromas of tangy green apples and is beautifully balanced with a crisp acidity and a deliciously fruity finish.

GRAPE:
Chenin Blanc 100%.

COUNTRY:
South Africa

REGION:
Cape Coast

SUB-REGION:
N/A