Kloof Street Old Vine Chenin Blanc, 2020

A fresh Chenin Blanc with aromas of sun-ripened pears and wet granite. Vibrant acidity balanced by a soft, round texture and pithy character and a refreshing finish.  

Meet the maker: Mullineux

Region: Swartland, Coastal Region – South Africa

Grape(s): Chenin Blanc (100%)

13% ABV / 750ml / Vegetarian / Vegan

Viticulture:

This wine is made from three sustainably farmed vineyard parcels from different parts of the Swartland. 

One parcel is sourced from 38-year-old old vine Chenin Blanc grown on the stony shale and schist-based soils of Kasteelberg, which retains heat well, ensuring even ripening and adds a mineral freshness to the wine.

The other two parcels are from old, dry-farmed bush vine Chenin Blanc planted on the decomposed granite soils of the Paardeberg.

The age of the vines, along with the dry conditions gives complex fruit with concentration of aroma and flavour.

The 2020 vintage was a good year for both quality and quantity in the Swartland, following the preceding drought years.

Winter began late in July, with good rainfall accompanied by cold conditions that replenished reserves in the soil.

Temperatures had a spike towards the end of August and the vineyards started budding about seven to ten days earlier than normal.

The ongoing heat led to even bud burst and the shoots developed rapidly.

Conditions were dry and warm, leading to a short and compact harvest period with good intensity of fruit and balanced acidity.

Winemaking:

Grapes were chilled in Mullineux's cold room facility, then pressed as whole bunches before the juice was allowed to settle overnight.

Minimal sulphur dioxide was added and, as with all their wines, no further additions were made.

The juice was then racked to tank (85%) and older French oak barrels (15%), for added complexity and roundness on the palate.

Fermentation took place with indigenous yeasts and lasted up to six weeks.

The barrels were racked and blended with the tank fermented portion before bottling.