Chenin Avec Chêne 2019 - Simonsig

Wine of Origin South Africa, Stellenbosch.

A major influence on the excellent 2019 vintage was the previous winter, which saw 70 percent more rainfall than the year before-resulting in higher yields and healthy vines.
Grapes from Simonsig's oldest Chenin vineyard (1986) were harvested at four different stages of ripeness to capture the full spectrum of Chenin Blanc flavors.

Earlier harvests were whole cluster pressed to enhance elegance and freshness, while the ripest part was left in contact with the skins for 18 hours. In addition, a portion of the grapes was vinified using the carbonic maceration technique to impart complexity and flavor structure. The various components were spontaneously barrel fermented before being aged on the lees with regular batonnage for 11 months. A combination of 400L and 225L barrels was used to create a complex wine with depth of flavor and freshness.

Tim Atkin: 92/100;
Diners Platter: 91/100.