Waterford Estate, Old Vine Project Chenin Blanc 2024

Description

PHILOSOPHY
At Waterford Estate, we embrace the harmonious collaboration between nature and the delicate balance of artistry and science to create truly authentic fine wines. Our wines embody a profound sense of place, culture, and an unwavering dedication to excellence. With a deep-rooted belief in transcending boundaries, we craft wines that offer a sensory journey, capturing the true essence of the Helderberg Mountain’s terroir.

A World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Conservation Champion and accredited Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) estate, Waterford also has Wine and Agricultural Ethical Trade Association (WIETA) accreditation and is a member of the Biodiversity in Wine Initiative (BWI).

VINTAGE REVIEW
The unique weather conditions of the year promise a standout vintage, showcasing vine resilience and winemaking artistry in the wines of 2024. With over 950 mm of winter rainfall on the Helderberg Mountain, compared to the typical 650 mm, particularly in September, the vines experienced a rejuvenating dormancy phase, storing energy for a strong growing season.

VINEYARD
The Old Vine Project Chenin blanc is mostly sourced from vineyards older than 35 years in the Stellenbosch region. The predominant vineyard was planted in 1966 and turned 59 this year.

VINIFICATION
The grapes are meticulously hand-harvested, with each bunch gently pressed in our cellar. The clear juice is then carefully transferred to concrete egg vessels for fermentation, while a small portion undergoes fermentation in neutral barrels. After four months, the individual batches are assessed, blended, and further aged for an additional six months in concrete egg vessels.

MATURATION
Fermented and aged in concrete egg vessels for 11 months.

TASTING NOTE
ON RELEASE (Date tasted: January 2025)
Aromas of ripe yellow fruits, honeydew melon, and honey take centre stage, while a delicate hint of pink peppercorn adds intrigue. The fruit-driven character on the nose seamlessly follows through to the palate, offering concentration and richness – a hallmark of the warmer vintage. The texture is round and waxy, supported by vibrant, broad acidity that brings balance. A pithy grapefruit rind note adds complexity, leading to a refined bittersweet grapefruit finish. The well-integrated acidity enhances the wine’s structure, creating a layered profile unique to older vineyards. The body is harmonious, showcasing the synergy between vineyard and winemaking.
EVOLUTION AFTER 5 YEARS
The wine’s aroma will begin to reveal nutty, almost honeyed sweetness, supported by the distinctive Chenin blanc fruit notes on the nose. Meanwhile, the palate retains its richness in terms of texture and minerality. The ageing of our Old Vine Project Chenin blanc enriches the wine, enhancing its fullness and complexity over time. This Chenin Blanc, shows aromas of dried summer fruits and a mineral characteristic that follows to the palate. The older vineyards impart minerality in the wine, that in tandem with the richly layered mouthfeel, serves to enhance the finely textured body. The palate is concentrated and rich, with green fig adding to the character of the wine. The use of concrete egg fermentation and maturation contributes to the complexity, allowing the wine to showcase the pure essence of Chenin blanc fruit.
EVOLUTION AFTER 5 YEARS
The wine’s aroma will begin to reveal nutty, almost honeyed sweetness, supported by the distinctive Chenin Blanc fruit notes on the nose. Meanwhile, the palate retains its richness in terms of texture and minerality. The ageing of our Old Vine Project Chenin Blanc enriches the wine, enhancing its fullness and complexity over time.

PAIRING SUGGESTION
Chenin blanc is a versatile white wine, making it an excellent companion for a wide range of meals. Whether you’re enjoying a light seafood curry or a walnut and goat’s cheese salad, Chenin Blanc is a perfect choice. Its mild acidity and aromatic fruity notes harmonise with spicy elements while also complementing the nutty and creamy components in various dishes.

AGEING POTENTIAL
5 – 10 years from production

WINE ANALYSIS
Alc 13.5 %
TA 4.1 g/L
RS 3.1 g/L
pH 3.57

Additional information

Chenin Blanc pairs beautifully with seafood curry or a walnut and goat’s cheese salad, its mild acidity and fruity notes enhancing spice, nuts, and creaminess.