Simonsig AVEC Chene Chenin Blanc 2017
Overview
 |
With a light straw color, this full-bodied Chenin Blanc has floral and fresh citrus aromas, with undertones of white peach. The palate is filled with concentrated layers of nectarines and lemon tart, with a fresh mineral finish. Subtle oak adds structure and complexity to this beautifully balanced Chenin Blanc. |
Wine Facts
Winemaker Notes
The name means “Chenin with oak”. Simonsig Chenin Blanc was the first wine released by founder Frans Malan in 1968. Over time, the winery realized that Chenin Blanc grown on weathered shale gives the most intense, perfumed fruit. The grapes for this wine come from the Estate’s oldest Chenin vineyards, which date back to 1986. 2017 was a challenging year that led to a smaller, but very promising harvest. The dry warm weather produced grapes with small berries exhibiting great fruit intensity. After destemming and crushing, fermentation was started in stainless steel (at about 53.6° F) and then was transferred to 225- liter and 400-liter French oak (third and fourth fill), where fermentation was completed. Battonage was done to enhance mouthfeel while maloactic fermentation was prevented. The wine was aged for 12 months in 7% used French Oak barrels.
Serving Hints
A true “gastronomic” wine, it pairs well with most foods, from grilled fish, chicken, or sushi to ripe, creamy cheeses. Should be served slightly chilled (52.2 – 60.8° F) – but do not overchill.
The name means “Chenin with oak”. Simonsig Chenin Blanc was the first wine released by founder Frans Malan in 1968. Over time, the winery realized that Chenin Blanc grown on weathered shale gives the most intense, perfumed fruit. The grapes for this wine come from the Estate’s oldest Chenin vineyards, which date back to 1986. 2017 was a challenging year that led to a smaller, but very promising harvest. The dry warm weather produced grapes with small berries exhibiting great fruit intensity. After destemming and crushing, fermentation was started in stainless steel (at about 53.6° F) and then was transferred to 225- liter and 400-liter French oak (third and fourth fill), where fermentation was completed. Battonage was done to enhance mouthfeel while maloactic fermentation was prevented. The wine was aged for 12 months in 7% used French Oak barrels.
Serving Hints
A true “gastronomic” wine, it pairs well with most foods, from grilled fish, chicken, or sushi to ripe, creamy cheeses. Should be served slightly chilled (52.2 – 60.8° F) – but do not overchill.
Producer: Simonsig Estate
Region: Stellenbosch
Country: South Africa
Wine Composition: 100% Chenin Blanc
Alcohol: 13.43 %
Residual Sugar: 2.9 G/L
Acidity: 6.5 G/L
pH: 3.25
Region: Stellenbosch
Country: South Africa
Wine Composition: 100% Chenin Blanc
Alcohol: 13.43 %
Residual Sugar: 2.9 G/L
Acidity: 6.5 G/L
pH: 3.25
Press Highlights
2015: 90 Pts - Wine Enthusiast, Dec 20162012: 91 Pts - Wine Advocate #209, Oct 2013
2012: 90 Pts - Wine Enthusiast, July 2014
2010: 91 Pts - Wine Enthusiast, July 2012
2010: 90 Pts - Wine Advocate #204, Dec 2012
2009: 92 Pts - Wine Advocate #196, Aug 2011