Description
The Reyneke estate now includes a total of 37 ha (91 acres) with vines growing on 30 ha of them and animals such as cows, ducks, chickens and guinea fowl on the rest. Since 2004, when biodynamic techniques were established in the vineyard, the pH of the soils has gone from 5.5 to 6 or 6.5, so the pH of the wine has gone down and the total acidity has gone up.
For this Reserve, grapes are harvested and cooled down over night in a cold room. Bunch selection and complete destalking, are followed by berry selection over a vibration table. Thereafter the grapes are left to ferment naturally in concrete tanks. When alcoholic fermentation is complete, skin contact is extended for a further 10 days. Spontaneous MLF occurs in barrique. The wine is aged for 22 months in new 225L French barrels.
Tasting Notes
The Chenin Blanc offers a nose of quince, white pear, and lemon, complemented by subtle honeysuckle notes. On the palate, this wine is layered with notes of lemon, quince, pear, and apple pith, which is perfectly balanced with a lively acidity. The finish is textured, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
This old vine Chenin blanc is a blend of the oldest vineyards on the property. The vineyards were planted in 1974 and 1979 respectively. Grapes are hand harvested and cooled overnight.
Fermentation occurred spontaneously in 300L oak and foudré. The wine was aged in older oak, on the lees, for 10 months. The wine received its first dose of SO2, once racked out of barrel, prior to bottling.
