DeMorgenzon, Reserve Chenin Blanc 2023
‘DeMorgenzon’ or ‘The Morning Sun’, was so named as it is the first part of the Stellenboschkloof Valley to see the sun each morning – due to its aspect and altitude.
The Reserve Chenin Blanc, in 2005, was the maiden release from DeMorgenzon, and was awarded 5 Platter’s stars. It hasn’t looked back since.
This premium South African Reserve Chenin Blanc is a world class wine offering that exudes elegance and sophistication.
£34.65
In stock
Stellenbosch
Chenin Blanc
Bone-drySweet
Description
DeMorgenzon’s Reserve Chenin Blanc comes from low-yielding vines that were planted in 1972 in decomposed granite soils.
TASTING NOTES
This show-stopping white wine captivates with its effusive aromas of white flowers, stone fruit, honey, and toast. These enchanting scents burst into opulent flavours of pear, orange blossom, caramel, and spice on the palate. This world-class offering achieves a brilliant balance between lush, ripe fruit and crisp, mouth-watering acidity, making it an exceptional and memorable wine.
VINEYARDS
DeMorgenzon’s Chenin Blanc comes from low-yielding vines planted in 1972, which were originally planted as bush vines but recently lifted onto trellises. The vines are planted in decomposed granite soils, at altitudes of 250 to 300 meters above sea level. Close proximity to False Bay ensures cooling breezes in the warm summer months.
VINTAGE
A mild yet wet winter ensured optimal soil conditions as the growing season began. A relatively cool spring, punctuated by occasional rain, led to a delayed bud break. However, warm weather in January helped correct any early-season unevenness. The continued moderate weather throughout the season allowed the harvest to progress at an even pace, enabling the winery to meticulously attend to each parcel as it arrived.
VINIFICATION AND MATURATION
The grapes were picked in three different passes in order to achieve optimum ripeness and balance in the final wine. The grapes were handpicked in the early morning hours, with bunch selection done in the vineyard. Fruit was cooled down and then gently pressed, whole bunch, and the juice was settled overnight without the use of settling enzymes. Fermentation occurred naturally in French oak barrels (15% new), using indigenous yeasts, with about 20% of the volume completing malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged on its lees in barrel for 10 months, without batonage.
CELLAR MASTER
Alastair Rimmer
Alcohol content: 13.9%
TA: 6 g/l
pH: 3.45
RS: 2.1 g/l
Additional information
| Grape | Chenin Blanc |
|---|---|
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Wine Farm | |
| Alcohol | 13.9% |
- Seafood and Shellfish: Pairs wonderfully with grilled prawns, scallops, lobster, or rich fish dishes, as the crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the seafood.
- Poultry and Game Birds: Excellent with roast chicken, grilled turkey, or duck served with a fruit-based glaze.
- Spicy and Mild Curries: Complementary to mild butter chicken or aromatic Asian-inspired spiced dishes because the wine's lush fruit profile balances moderate heat.
- Creamy Pasta and Risotto: Matches well with mushroom or parmesan-infused creamy pasta sauces.
- Hard and Soft Cheeses: Outstanding with mature hard cheeses like Cheddar and Gruyère, or mild soft cheeses and blue cheese.
3 reviews for DeMorgenzon, Reserve Chenin Blanc 2023
Location
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93 points | Tim Atkin MW Special South Africa Report 2025
“Made with grapes from different blocks, although the core of the wine comes from a parcel planted in 1972, this is an assertively wooded, still youthful expression of Chenin Blanc, with top notes of vanilla and cinnamon, flavours of pear, banana and waxed lemons and a focused, energetic finish. 2026-30.”
Tim Atkin MW Special South Africa Report 2025 –
95 points | Platter’s Wine Guide 2026
“Chock-full trophy cabinet for this ageworthy Cape benchmark, from bunches selected during 3 separate passes. 2023 intriguing mix litchi , quince & caramelised pineapple beautifully assimilates subtle toasty oak, 15% new, creamy texture thanks to partial malo & 10 months on lees without stirring. Lovely seam of acid runs through it all to thoroughly satisfy finish.”
Platter’s Wine Guide 2026 –
Double Gold | Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards 2025
Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards 2025 –