Family Reserve Chenin Blanc

Shellfish, Spicy food, Lean fish, Mild and soft cheese

This Family Reserve Chenin Blanc 2013 was crafted from different soils (Granite, Oakleaf, and Duplex) and each contributed to the best quality level of fruit and palate structure. These grapes were harvested from Bush vine vineyards and from three different wards in Stellenbosch. The canopy of the bush vines was suckered and tipped to ensure a cool microclimate around the grapes with no direct sun and without botrytis. On all three soil selections only the best portions of fruit were separately harvested, and each then contributes to reach a final goal of pure varietal fruit, elegance, and structure. These selections will be maintained in future to create a Kleine Zalze Icon Chenin Blanc style.

Lees contact was given throughout the 12-month barrel maturation period. According to the fruit and palate structure, each of the three different wines were finally blended to deliver the best expression of Chenin Blanc freshness with an earthy, dry finish.

The grapes were picked separately between 22.5 and 24.5°balling, reductively crushed and the juice was given extended skin contact prior to settling. Halfway through fermentation the separate components were transferred into 400-litre fine grain oak barrels (30% new, 30% second and 40% third fill). A slow and long fermentation was completed after ten weeks in the barrels at a controlled temperature.

Kleine Zalze wines are marked by a classical structure and complexity matched by a vibrant flavour intensity. Discernibly South African in style, they are refreshing, beautifully balanced and well-suited to food. Our wines are made according to traditional methods with minimal cellar intervention, but supported by modern equipment.