Ennui new releases

Ennui means “a feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction” is the name that Zevenwacht Hagen and his wife Nicola have given their own label wines, the project launched as “an escape from the monotony of the daily grind”.  Nicola, who is a trained winemaker herself, took time off when the couple’s twin daughters were born before taking a winery logistics job, is hoping to see Ennui grow. Tasting notes and ratings for their maiden releases as follows:

Golden Thread Chenin Blanc 2023
Price: R330
Grapes from a Zevenwacht vineyard planted in 1981. 50% given skin contact for four days before being mature in an amphora, 50% fermented in barrel, maturation lasting a total of 10 months. Subtle aromatics of apple, peach, apricot and soft citrus plus spice and earth while the palate Is understated and nicely detailed – pure fruit with well-integrated acidity, the finish lightly grippy and gently savoury. Alc: 13.3%. Total production: 600 bottles.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Silver Lining Grenache 2024
Price: R330

Grapes from a Piekenierskloof vineyard planted in 2014. 70% whole-bunch fermentation before maturation in older 500-litre barrels. Engaging aromatics of strawberry, cranberry, white pepper and earth while the palate shows pure fruit, zingy acidity and powdery tannins. Not necessarily profound but utterly charming. Alc: 13.5%. Total production: 800 bottles.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

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