Description
The Reyneke vineyards are herbicide, pesticide and fungicide free. Just like any organic vineyard should be. Instead of spraying weeds with poison, companion plants are carefully selected and grown amongst the vines to out compete the weeds. These companion plants have the ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere, help break up compacted soil or even harbour a beneficial insect or two. The Reyneke farm is independently certified, which honestly and transparently says that they are practicing what they preach. By allowing Dandelion ‘weeds’ to grow, they ensure that the measly Mealybug lives on its roots rather than the vines. Instead of using systemic fungicides they use very limited amounts of natural fungicides like copper and sulphur. And they are even trying to do away with these natural fungicides. It’s early days yet but they’re trying to replace them entirely and only apply biological controls like trichoderma and metabolite. With these basics right, it’s only natural to take organics to the next level. Specific biodynamic preparations are added to the compost and applied directly to the vineyards. These preparations consist of specially formulated herbal, mineral and organic substances that enhance the soil, and simultaneously boost plant and animal life.
Tasting Notes
The 2019 Chenin Blanc displays precision and purity with aromas of white peach, yellow apple, sweet citrus and elements of pineapple, wax melon and dusty yellow flowers. Medium-bodied, it shows impeccable balance with a lively mouthfeel with energetic acidity that sways with a mineral tension, delivering a fresh, juicy mid-palate with a subtle, growing essence of petrichor, white spice and sautéed almonds. The finish is thoughtful and lingering with notes of lemon peel, peach skin and a kiss of phenolic bitterness. These wines remain a consistent crowd-pleaser and are incredibly food friendly and versatile. [90 Points, Anthony Mueller – May 2021, robertparker.com]
