Naturally fermented white with refined elegance
Issued by Random Hat Communications on behalf of Delheim Estate
Delheim, the notable wine estate of the Sperling family outside
Stellenbosch, has introduced its brand new Family Chenin Blanc 2014 to the
local wine scene – an eloquent, lightly wooded rendition of this faithful
varietal.
Just in time for summer celebrations, this newcomer steps up a
notch from the more easy-drinking breed of Chenins and garners respect as a
naturally fermented white with well-rounded ripeness, fresh acidity and complex
flavours.
“Our naturally fermented Family Chenin Blanc 2014 depicts an
elegant and more refined taste of South Africa’s most widely planted varietal.
The wine offers greater depth and complexity with a deliciously viscous mouth
feel,” share winemaker Reg Holder.
The grapes stem from two separate vineyard sites, which were
harvested three weeks apart. The one lies 400 metres above sea level on a south
eastern slope at Delheim, ideal for attaining full ripeness, whilst the other
vineyard thrives in deep, rich soils on Delheim’s Vera Cruz Estate on
Klapmutskop, which lies approximately three kilometres from Delheim. These two
idyllic terroirs impart an intense aromatic fruitiness and full-bodied
structure to the wine.
The grapes were whole-bunch pressed and then naturally fermented.
60% of the juice spent six months in French oak barrels, whilst the balance
spent the same time period on the primary lees in 50 year old concrete tanks.
“The idea of the wine is to give expression to the cultivar and
terroir. The wood integration is delicate and the wine shows a silky richness
without compromising on its fresh fruit appeal,” adds Holder.
The wine exudes a fresh green tinge, with stone fruit and
grapefruit dominant on the nose enhanced with subtle savoury and oak nuances.
The palate shows restraint with lengthy tannins and sweet fruit contributing to
a lingering aftertaste.
This Delheim Family Chenin Blanc 2014 is at its best within three
to five years of vintage date and is quintessentially the chosen accompaniment
for a hot summer’s day. Enjoy it slightly chilled as an aperitif or try it with
pasta with blue cheese and walnut or spicy prawns. This wine complements
seafood, traditional curries and Thai dishes exceptionally well.
The Delheim Family Chenin Blanc 2014
retails at R105 per bottle and is available directly from the estate or at
selected boutique wine shops.
For more information or direct wine orders contact Delheim Estate
at Tel: 021 888 4600 or
send an email to info@delheim.com.
