SOUTH AFRICA

de Trafford Chenin Blanc Walker Bay
2003 Chenin Blanc

Viticulture

Vineyard:
Soil Type: The soil is pure active limestone – unique in South Africa at this stage.
Vine Age: 4 years old.
Irrigation: Sprayer
Harvest Date: 13 to 20 February 2003.
Yield: 5 t/ha

Vinification:

Grapes lightly crushed and allowed two hours skin contact before gently pressing in a traditional basket press. Sulphur and dry ice added and natural settling allowed for two days before 100 % barrel fermentation with natural yeasts.
All the wine kept in 225 L casks for 8 months with lees stirred 1 - 2 times a month initially.
10% new American oak used. No malolactic fermentation.
Bottled unfiltered on the Mont Fleur property by hand with only a light bentonite fining.
Bottling date : 3 December 2003.

Tasting Notes:

Color: An appealing pale yellow colour.
Nose: The nose shows a chalky floral character complimented by subtle vanilla oak and some minerality.
Palate: The palate is elegant with a subtle, complex richness and long aftertaste.
Other: Probably best between 2003 and 2007.
Excellent with sushi, fish and seafood dishes, or on its own.

Chemical Analysis:

Alc (%): 13.9
RS (g/l): 1.2
TA (g/l): 6.54
pH: 3.39