SOUTH AFRICA

de Trafford 4V
NV Chenin Blanc

Viticulture

Vineyard: Keerweder, Post House and Bredell vineyards.
Soil Type: Decomposed granite soils with good moisture retention.
Vine Age: 25 to 40 years old.
Irrigation: No irrigation
Harvest Date:
Yield: 3 to 7 tons/ha.

Vinification:

This is a unique one-off production of 4 vintages of De Trafford Chenin Blanc. This wine was inspired by one exceptional 700 liters barrel 2009 that took two years to ferment dry, well almost, and at every stage of its long journey from the shackles of sugar, it tasted delicious! At the same time there was another 700 liters barrel 2010 that underwent a similar journey, so it seemed obvious to combine them and throw in three 225 liters barrels of the latest 2011 vintage to freshen things up. It also just happened that there was a single 225 liters 2008 lying in the corner of the cellar, to add a touch of nutty complexity!
PRODUCTION
Grapes lightly crushed and allowed 3 hours skin contact before gently pressing in a traditional basket press. Sulphur added and natural settling allowed for 2 days before 100 % barrel fermentation with natural yeasts. 7 to 43 months in 225 and 700 liters casks. Lightly fined with bentonite – a natural clay. 20% new French oak used. Partial malolactic fermentation.
Bottled unfiltered on the property by hand.
220 cases of 12 bottles made.

One of three label painting set by Rita Trafford titled: Pond Studies

Tasting Notes:

Color: An appealing pale yellow colour.
Nose: The nose shows dried apricots, honey, nuts and damp hay with some spicy oak.
Palate: Shows wonderful nutty richness without losing fruit core, developing with great interest in the glass. More Rhone Valley than Loire with thick appealing texture. A long, clean, dry finish.
Other: Versatile food wine – excellent with rich fish and seafood dishes, as well as most subtle white meats or simply on its own.

Chemical Analysis:

Alc (%): 14.68
RS (g/l): 4.9
TA (g/l): 5.5
pH: 3.59