Stellenrust Old Bushvine Chenin Blanc 2019

Stellenbosch cellar Stellenrust makes various versions of old-vine Chenin Blanc, perhaps the most well-known being the opulent Barrel Fermented which is also always designated with the age of the vineyard in that particular year, the 55 Barrel Fermented 2019 rating 91 earlier in the year – see here.

Two other versions come from a block planted in the late 1970s, namely Naked Truth and Old Bush Vine and the present interesting counterpoints in style.

 Stellenrust Naked Truth Chenin Blanc 2019

Unwooded and hence the name. The nose shows quite a pronounced leesy note before citrus and peach while the palate possesses concentrated fruit and high acidity that provides plenty of refreshment factor, the finish long and saline. Alc 14%

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Stellenrust Old Bushvine Chenin Blanc 2019

Spontaneously fermented and matured for seven months in older oak. Citrus, peach and apricot plus some struck-match reduction on the nose while the palate shows dense fruit, snappy acidity and a savoury finish. Full but beautifully balanced.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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