Springdoring (Cenchrus incertus), the resolute hitchhiker, is quick to attach and slow to let go. But not quite as stubborn and persistent as our hardened Chenin Blanc vines grown in the Swartland. Survival is everything.

This heritage bush vine vineyard, planted in 1982 is nestled in the Joubertskloof on the Paardeberg Mountain - the landmark of the Swartland. The vines are rooted in pure granite soils and sheltered from the blazing afternoon sun (Eastfacing). The grapes were delicately whole bunch pressed and naturally fermented in older French oak barrels, only the free run juice was used. The lees was stirred (battonage) for the first month, and allowed to mature on the lees for 9 months prior to bottling, unfiltered. 

Tasting Notes:  Notes of grapefruit and trademark Swartland thatch. Edgy aromatics, limes and more citrus on the pristine palate leaving a crystalline mineral finish with plenty nervous tension.

Grapes from a Paardeberg vineyard planted in 1980. The nose shows hay, lime, white peach and a hint of flinty reduction. The palate is lithe and energetic – good fruit concentration, well integrated acidity, the finish pithy in texture and nicely savoury. Alc: 12%. CE’s rating: 96/100.

ANALYSIS: ALC 12% | TA 5.8g/l | RS 1.5g/l | pH 3.22