Arendsig Inspirational Batch 2 Grenache 2015

Less is more.

The 2015 vintage of Chenin Blanc that Arendsig winemaker Lourens van der Westhuizen makes as part of his Inspirational Batch series is something particularly special (see here) but the Grenache from 2015 is also excellent.

From grapes grown on Fraai Uitzicht, fermentation occurred spontaneously, half in open-top fermenters and half in 5000-litre vat, a 20% portion not destemmed; maturation, meanwhile, was just three months.

The nose shows a floral note before red berries and a hint of spice while the palate is poised with lovely fruit expression and bright acidity. Really nicely resolved. Approximate retail price: R150 a bottle.

#WinemagRating: 91/100.

Also in the series is the Inspirational Batch 5 Pinot Noir 2015. Grapes also come from a Klaasvoogds vineyard and fermentation was again spontaneous, 10% of the grapes left on the stems, the wine matured for 10 months in 5000-litre vats. There are notes of roses, red and black cherry plus some earthiness on the nose, nothing too obvious. The palate meanwhile is full but balanced with fresh acidity and gently grippy tannins. It’s a very pleasing if not super-refined “light red”. Price: R135 a bottle.

#WinemagRating: 88/100.

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