fact #41 – when did the «Old Vine Project» begin?
South Africa in search of old vineyards
South Africa has approximately 3,700 hectares of Old Vine vines and 10 vineyards that are even more than 100 years old.
Grapevines can live for more than 120 years, but not all producers keep them that long. Why? Because the yield of the grapevines decreases significantly from year to year after about 20 years. However, these vines have a great advantage: they lead to more concentrated and intense wines.
"Old Vine grapes show less fruit, but reflect the earth and terroir on which they grew. Old Vine is considered a mark of quality, possessing denser aromas because the vines root deeper to access water and nutrients," writes our sommelier and wine expert Andy Meyer in our Tip #33
The minimum age for vines in South Africa is 35 years. In 2002, the Old Vine Project began in South Africa with the search for old vineyards, and today there are approximately 3,700 hectares of Old Vine grapes and 10 vineyards that are even older than 100 years. Nearly 2,000 hectares are planted with Chenin Blanc, the most widely grown variety in South Africa.
If you have never tasted an Old Vine, it is worth taking a look at the selection.
SPIER
21 GABLES – Chenin Blanc – Screw Cap – 2019
5 Stars by Platter’s
From a pale gold hue with a lemon-colored rim in the glass, Spier 21 Gables Chenin Blanc exudes seductive aromas of dried apricots and a subtle hint of warm vanilla and fine oak. On the palate, incredibly delicious flavors of white peaches and fine almond paste unfold, along with a fine creaminess, paired with a well-balanced acidity.
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SPIER
21 Gables – Chenin Blanc – Screw Cap – 2019
CHF 23.90 instead of CHF 29.00
Ken Forrester
FMC – Chenin Blanc – Screw Cap – 2019
4.5 Stars by Platter’s
An icon among the best South African Chenin Blancs – a wine that changes the world. The Ken Forrester FMC Chenin Blanc was designed to indelibly mark Cape Chenins on the world map. A full-bodied, powerful wine with a whole palette of deliciously lush taste nuances – notes of dried apricots, fragrant vanilla and fine honey indulge the senses here and provide absolute delight.
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KEN FORRESTER
FMC -Chenin Blanc – 2019
CHF 49.00 instead of CHF 59.00
BOEKENHOUTSKLOOF
SEMILLON – 2018
96 Points by Tim Atkin
The nose reveals aromas of ripe mandarins, orange blossom, angelica and delicate hints of lemon curd with a slightly smoky note and a touch of gravel. The palate shows a complex fruit with aromas of lemongrass, mandarin and a lively, tangy mouthfeel that is perfectly balanced and not overwhelmed by the oak spice, with nuances of fenugreek, tarragon and dill. The mid-palate is full, rich and very complex, with attractive weight and a creamy, cedar-like character balanced by a lemony freshness, suggesting enormous aging potential.
Killer Deal – from 6 bottles
BOEKENHOUTSKLOOF
Semillon – 2018
CHF 24.00 instead of CHF 39.00
De Morgenzon
Chenin Blanc rESERVE – 2019
5 Stars by Platter’s
This striking white wine displays exuberant aromas of white flowers, stone fruit, honey, and toast, transitioning into opulent flavors of pear, orange blossom, caramel, and spices. It is a world-class wine that offers a brilliant balance between lush fruit and crisp, delicious acidity.
Killer Deal – from 6 bottles
DE MORGENZON
Chenin Blanc Reserve – 2019
CHF 29.90 instead of CHF 39.00
David & Nadia
Hoe-Steen – Chenin Blanc – 2020
95 Points by James Suckling
The 2020 vintage exudes notes of beeswax and pollen with traces of dried lemon. It is broad and enveloping, but no longer as creamy as in the past. A tapering, restrained expression. Notes of blood orange, iron, and stones. Very pure.
DAVID & NADIA
Hoe-Steen – Chenin Blanc – 2020
CHF 75.00
darling cellars
Chenin Blanc – Old bush vine – 2020
4.5 Stars by Platter’s
This Chenin Blanc shows a beautiful straw-yellow color in the glass and a mineral freshness on the nose. It is a complex wine with undertones of orange peel and yellow peach and a long-lasting finish. The oak is subtle and well integrated into the fruit.
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DARLING CELLARS
Chenin Blanc – Old Bush Vine – 2020
CHF 19.20 instead of CHF 24.00
All prices in CHF incl. VAT. Daily price as of 08.03.2022.
Offers valid while stocks last. Errors and price changes reserved.
