£37.00
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High up on the Swartland Waterval farm of Jasper and Franziska Wickens the old vine Tiernes Chenin Blanc vineyard planted in 1983 represent the epitome of this terroir, the decomposed Granite-rich soils of the Paardeberg. Planted on deep granitic deposits, these vines yield an exceptional expression of Chenin Blanc.
| Wine Type | White |
|---|---|
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | Cape South Coast |
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Brand | Swerwer |
| Cultivar | Chenin Blanc |
| Bottle Size | 75cl |
| Pack Size | 1x75cl |
| Alcohol Percentage | 13.50 |
| Duty Status | Duty Paid |
| Availability | Immediate |
| Rating Agencies | Greg Sherwood, JancisRobinson.com |
Smells just like the moment after you ve lifted the blowtorch off a vanilla-bean-infused creme anglaise. And then, the sweet smell of yellow split peas simmered slowly under a gathering golden pool of ghee. It has that chana-dahl sweet earthiness, saffron and egg-yolk richness and fragrance, the comfort of baked pear. Smoky finish. The texture of a butter bean. No hurry to drink it, either. A wonderful wine. It makes me feel kind of nested in the heart of the earth. And although it would be fine (exceptionally fine) with, say, roast chicken, or scallops grilled in a cheesy buttery sauce, I actually think that this wine would be most beautiful and most interesting with vegan dishes. It seems to be so rooted to the earth in its vibe that it s as if its frequency is tuned to plant-based dishes.
Anticipated maturity: 2026-2033
The wonderful thing about an accomplished old vine cuvee like Tiernes is its sheer depth, intensity and presence. Imposing in the glass, this 2023 shows all the muscle and flesh neighbour Eben Sadie was so profusive about with his entire range of old vine whites and reds from 2023. The aromatics simply soar like an eagle – plush, complex and packed full of waxy lemon and white citrus, white peach, dried herbs, and intense savoury leesy nuances. The palate is rich but classically restrained, reined in by a fresh tangy acidity that frames an incredibly broad, fleshy, expansive mouthfeel that is also incredibly focused, harmonious, and seamless, yet wonderfully effusive, showing dried peach, quince, and garrigue spice, before the archetypal wet stone granitic minerality closes out the finish. The clear standout elements of most top 2023 Paardeberg whites are their muscle, fruit power, and understated depth and intensity. Not in a loud and shouty style, nor in a big and brash manner – this wine simply strolls into the room silently and commands your attention. What not to love about an old vine Paardeberg Chenin Blanc from such a distinguished single vineyard? This is undoubtedly a wine to seek out and buy on release. Drink from 2026 to 2040+.
