06/02/2023
Introducing the newly released 2021 vintage of Delheim’s Wild Ferment Chenin Blanc, the first vintage to sport a Heritage Vineyard Seal.
In addition to its spontaneous fermentation by indigenous yeast, the wine is fermented in different vessels (like older 500L French oak barrels and concrete, egg-shaped tanks) to avoid producing a one-dimensional expression.
What you can expect?
A complex array of characteristics associated with this style. There’s a display of vibrant fruit on the palate with plentiful mouthfeel and a lasting finish on the palate.
Think dominant fragrances of stone fruits and orange peel supported by a subtle note of honeysuckle.
To quote Cellarmaster Roelof Lotriet:
“The reason for using older barrels is that I’d like to express as much Delheim Chenin blanc fruit in the wine as possible, and not French terroir.”
It is left on the lees for another “nine or so” months before the final blend is made up. A very light filtration is done prior to bottling.
“For me, this wine’s wonderful story is of Delheim and its pioneering history in the South African wine industry.”
About heritage certification
In all the Winelands of the world, old vines are proudly mentioned on labels. Such is the value accorded to these elders and the wines they produce. But only in South Africa, is it possible for that claim to be certified by the regulatory authority. Here, members of the Old Vine Project (OVP) can now put a Certified Heritage Vineyards seal on bottles of wine made from vineyards of 35 years or older, together with the planting date. This is a guarantee to wine-lovers of authentic wines grown according to the OVP viticultural and winemaking guidelines.
Roelof suggests that with careful cellaring, the wine will age gracefully for at least six years from vintage, but we couldn't wait to open and enjoy a bottle now.
