Lievland Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2023
A true showcase of the versatility and depth of South African Chenin Blanc. Light straw colour with a golden hue, with aromas of white peach, citrus and pineapple. The rich and ripe mouthfeel in this elegant wine is balanced by vibrant acidity and subtle minerality.
The old-vine grapes for this wine come primarily from vineyards located on "Eenzaamheid" in the Agter-Paarl region, a 7th-generation family farm owned by the Briers-Louw family. The property sits on a basin of shale that is excellent for Chenin Blanc. 30% of the wine comes from a dry-farmed bush-vine vineyard planted in 1976. It is on a south-facing slope and produces grapes that show more stone fruit and mineral flinty characteristics. The balance of the wine is from a dry-farmed bush-vine vineyard planted in 1983. Slightly warmer, it produces concentrated wines with amazing texture.
The grapes were hand-picked after which they were immediately crushed, destemmed and pressed. After overnight settling the juice was racked off the gross lees and a small amount of fine lees was added back to give texture to the wine. The juice was then transferred to a combination of stainless steel tank (50%) and neutral oak (50%). Fermentation was controlled at 14-16°C over a 14-day period and the wine was left on the lees for two months, resulting in a rich and textured palate.
| RRP | £17.95 |
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Alcoholic strength | 13.0% |
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | Paarl |
| Grapes | Chenin Blanc 100% |
| Dry/Sweet value | 1 |
| Contains sulphites | Yes |
| Vegetarian | Yes |
| Vegan | Yes |
| Milk | No |
| Eggs | No |
| Organic | No |
| Biodynamic | No |
| Closure | Screwcap |
Lievland is one of Stellenbosch’s most historically important farms, and the property in its current form dates back to 1934, when it was purchased by Baron and Baroness Von Stiernhjelm from Latvia. In late 2017, José Conde and Tyrrel Myburgh, two of the South African wine industry’s leading lights, purchased the estate and they have since set about an extensive re-planting programme and reconstruction of the cellars. The farm is located in a favourable position on the north-western slope of the Simonsberg Mountain; its sheltered position, with cooler than average conditions for Stellenbosch, is ideal for high-quality wine production.
