Roodekrantz 1983 Old Bush Vine Chenin Blanc 2023

Roodekrantz Chenin Blanc Single Vineyard 1983 (2023) has an aromatic nose with a lively mix of tropical and stone fruit: peach, pineapple, and ripe citrus, complemented by notes of crushed apple. On the palate, these flavors continue, balanced by a fresh, lively acidity and a subtle oak influence that gives the wine extra dimension.

The wine is made by winemaker Danie Morkel, in collaboration with the Burger and Morkel families, who have been bottling old vineyards under the Roodekrantz name since 2015, separate from large commercial blends. The winery is affiliated with the Old Vine Project, which is dedicated to the preservation and management of South Africa's oldest vineyards.

The grapes come from a bushvine vineyard planted in 1983 on weathered granite soils in the Swartland, harvested by hand in the early morning hours for optimal ripeness. After destemming, crushing, and pressing, the juice was allowed to settle overnight; 90% of the wine fermented in stainless steel tanks and 10% in two 500-liter French oak barrels. Subsequently, the wine aged on the fine lees for three months, which contributes to depth and texture.