Kaapzicht Sonsteen Chenin Blanc 2023 is a distinctive single-vineyard white from Kaapzicht Wine Estate, a family-owned winery in the Bottelary Hills of Stellenbosch, South Africa, where granite soils, cooling breezes and old bush vines produce expressive Chenin Blanc with character and freshness. The “Sonsteen” block is named for the granite stones in its soils and its sunny afternoon exposure, giving the fruit intense ripeness and vibrant flavour. The 2023 vintage was harvested early in the cool morning and allowed three days of gentle skin contact before pressing, a technique that adds texture and nuance to the wine. After spontaneous fermentation, it spent about ten months ageing in old French oak to build complexity while preserving purity of fruit. In the glass it shows pale gold colour with lifted aromatics of grapefruit, orange peel and almond, followed by a palate of white peach and orange pith framed by lively acidity and a dry, lingering finish. The subtle oak influence and skin contact give this Chenin Blanc added depth and nuance compared to lighter, purely stainless-steel expressions. This versatile white pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, roast chicken, creamy pasta or Asian-inspired light dishes, and also stands well on its own as an elegant aperitif. Why we love this wine? The wine tastes like morning sunshine!
