Expressive and textured, the 2024 Delheim Wild Ferment Chenin Blanc showcases the character of old Stellenbosch vines through natural fermentation. Aromas of ripe stone fruit and orange peel unfold alongside hints of honeysuckle, leading to a vibrant palate with generous mouthfeel and a long, lingering finish. Crafted without added yeast, this wine tells a story of site and season with authenticity and finesse. A standout choice for those seeking a layered, wild-ferment South African Chenin Blanc.
They approach this wine in a very natural way of making wine to respect the fruit from the oldest block of Chenin Blanc on the farm. The grapes are picked early morning to keep the temperature as cold as possible. Bunches are de-stalked and grapes crushed before a gentle press. The juice is left to settle for close to two days at cold temperatures then racked off into barrels and concrete egg-shaped tanks for fermentation. Spontaneous fermentation is allowed to take place, (no commercial yeast is used), which allows the wine to tell its own story and that of Delheim terroir.
Post fermentation, the wine is left on its fine lees to mature for another nine months, after which it receives a light filtration and minimum dose of sulphur before bottling. They then keep it at optimum temperature for another year of bottle maturation.
Winemaker: Roelof Lotriet
Post fermentation, the wine is left on its fine lees to mature for another nine months, after which it receives a light filtration and minimum dose of sulphur before bottling. They then keep it at optimum temperature for another year of bottle maturation.
Winemaker: Roelof Lotriet
Delheim Wine Estate is situated in the Simonsberg Ward of Stellenbosch in South Africa, with views that are breathtaking all year round. Delheim has been producing a wide range of internationally acclaimed wines for more than 60 years.
