DeMorgenzon Reserve Chenin Blanc

Learn More About This Wine

The Reserve 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 metres above sea level. Close proximity to False Bay ensures cooling breezes in the warm summer months. 

The grapes were picked in three different passes in order to achieve 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 (20% new), using indigenous yeast, with about 20% completing malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged on its lees in barrel for 10 months, with bâtonnage.

The wine opens with aromas of ripe peach and apricot with a fragrant floral undertone. This is layered with notes of toasted almonds and a hint of vanilla. The palate is generous with the creamy texture working beautifully with the vibrant acidity. Layers of pear, honeyed citrus, and golden delicious apple. The oak influence is evident but impeccably integrated, offering nuances of nutmeg and a hint of flint and smokiness that adds depth and dimension to the wine. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression of well-balanced richness and finesse.