Winemaker Notes
Pale lemon straw color with a clean nose of unexpected linear purity of fruit. The winemakers smell white peach, pineapple, apple and pear notes, rounded off with a touch of chalkiness, earthy stone minerality. On the palate the layered complexity of mandarin zest, apple, pickling spices, white citrus/jasmine blossoms, grapefruit pith and a fine minerality surprises. The beautifully balanced acidity and intense core complements a wine that is fresh, crisp and elegant with tremendous depth.
Unquestionably one of the most diverse grape varieties, Chenin Blanc can do it all. It shines in every style from bone dry to unctuously sweet, oaked or unoaked, still or sparkling and even as the base for fortified wines and spirits. Perhaps Chenin Blanc’s greatest asset is its ever-present acidity, maintained even under warm growing conditions. Somm Secret—Landing in South Africa in the mid 1800s, today the country has double the acreage of Chenin Blanc planted compared to France. There is also a new wave of dedicated producers committed to restoring old Chenin vines.
This high-elevation, cool-climate district, nestled into the ancient sandstone Hottentots Holland Mountains, traditionally was apple orchard land. Today Elgin is also a source of exceptional Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc and Pinot noir.