“The first of its kind in South Africa. Inspired by the great Vin de Paille of the Rhone valley and the Jura, first produced in 1997. Exclusively Chenin Blanc, picked at normal (optimum) ripeness and laid out to dry on drying racks under the shade of the oak trees below the winery. Typically drying takes about 3 weeks and the sugars concentrate as well as the flavour and acidity (providing balance). Extracting the treacle-like liquid from the shriveled berries is back-breaking work in our traditional basket press. This is followed by usually a year-long fermentation due to the concentrated nature of the liquid. We usually bottle after nearly 2 years in barrels and the result is intensely sweet yet not cloying.” Attractive deep yellow colour. Intense honey, apricot, nuts and passion fruit nose. The palate is sweet and concentrated with enough acidity and oak tannin to compliment and deliver a long, lingering finish. This wine is a dessert all on its own – a real treat after the meal. Delicious with biscotti and various nuts. Compliments slightly tart fruit desserts and good pates beautifully. ANALYSIS: Alc. 10.45% | RS. 259 g/l | TA 7.6g/l | pH 3.55 Tim Atkin 95 – South Africa Special Report 2024
