Description
The 2022 Monk Stone Chenin Blanc is a complex wine matured in a blend of handmade clay amphorae and neutral French oak barrels. The bouquet is beautifully layered with guava and quince, complemented by rich notes of crème brûlée. On the palate, it is fresh and vibrant, with a long finish highlighted by persistent minerality. This is an age-worthy Chenin Blanc, offering a balance of texture and elegance.
The name Monk Stone comes from the large boulder that stands proudly in the organically grown, high-altitude vineyard block at Stark-Condé. The bush-vine Chenin vineyard, planted on dramatic terraces sculpted to prevent rain erosion, adds to the wine’s uniqueness. The wave-like patterns of the terraces and the large stone evoke a traditional Japanese rock garden, inspiring the name “Monk Stone.”
Awards/Reviews:
5 Stars, Platters 2024 Guide to South African Wines – Exceptional
Reviews
Greg Sherwood 95
"After the block buster 2021 Monk Stone Chenin Blanc, the new release 2022 from Stark Conde will certainly draw a lot of attention. Matured for eight months, 55% in amphorae and 45% in second-fill barrels, the aromatics remain incredibly pure and mineral driven offering pithy white citrus, freshly baled straw, dried herbs, white peach and lemon infused chamomile tea with melted honey hints. The palate is wonderfully fresh and crisp with an intense tangy acidity and complex layers of sweet lemon pastille, crunchy peach and stony liquid mineral nuances. Yet another extremely delicious and finely-crafted Chenin Blanc from Rudger van Wyk that shows impressive focus and intensity with a meticulous crystalline purity and elegance. Drink on release or ideally, cellar for a further 2 to 3+ years to allow this classy Chenin Blanc to unfurl." – Greg Sherwood MW. [Greg Sherwood, 01/04/2023]
