Barrel Fermented Chenin Blanc

Rich fish or cream-based chicken entrées.

Fully ripe grapes were handpicked. A small percentage (± 1.5%) of botrytis is considered desirable and adds further complexity. Picking occurred in the mornings when conditions, where cooler and the barrel fermented Chenin Blanc, comes from 3 blocks (2 trellised and 1 old bush vine block.)

After natural fermentation the wine remained in barrel for 8 months with regular batonage (stirring of lees). A third of the barrels were new French oak and the balance 2nd and 3rd fill. Finally, after stabilization, the wine was bottled in October.

In 2020 60% of the fruit was whole bunch pressed. The balance was crushed and destalked prior to ±4 hours of skin contact. After a light pressing in pneumatic bag presses the juice was settled overnight before being racked to barrels. We followed a low S02 regime and allowed MLF on 15% of the wine to allow early evolution. On the balance (85%), MLF was prevented to retain freshness.

Villiera is a family run winery situated in the Stellenbosch region, producing a range of still wines and recognised as one of South Africa’s leading Cap Classique producers. It is a pioneering, innovative, quality wine company committed to preserving the environment. The cellar is solar powered and there is an on-going greening project (well over 100 000 indigenous trees have been planted in the past few years). Villiera is also committed to education and upliftment of their staff and their families. Villiera Wines is also home to the Villiera Wildlife Sanctuary (220 Ha) Visitors are guaranteed fantastic sightings of a diverse population of antelope, for example Gemsbok, Burchell’s Zebra, Kudu, Eland, Springbok, Bontebok, Giraffe, Wildebeest etc. as well as other small mammals and a huge diversity of birdlife attracted by the 12 dams and marsh areas. On a clear day one has a beautiful panoramic view of the mountains overlooking the Cape Peninsula.