Tags
$25, 5 stars, 91 points, chenin blanc, South Africa, stellenbosch
Pale gold colored with high viscosity (13.5% ABV). The nose has medium (+) intensity aromas of Meyer lemon, ginger, white flower, pink grapefruit, citrus pith, a touch of brioche and honeysuckle. The palate has hint of sweetness, or else it is from really ripe fruit but it reminds me of honey. Medium (+) acidity leads to a pretty full body. The flavors of Meyer lemon and grapefruit coat my mouth along with the florals and some bitterness from citrus pith. The use of oak maturation and a bit of skin contact leave this with with a rounded mouthfeel that has a bitterness that I am enjoying. It’s not a buttery, oaked Chard yet it has similar traits to one that has seen a deft hand. I like it. The finish is medium (+) in length and the citrus bows out early, leaving some brioche/vanilla and baking spice notes to carry through to the end. For $25, this is a great wine to pair with grilled salmon or roast chicken. My particular pairing is a vegetarian Tagine with lots of spices, preserved lemon and toasted almonds. I would drink it over the next few years. It gets 91 points from me and 5 stars. Salut….