Uitkyk Chenin Blanc 2015

Solid gold.

Lusan, the joint venture between Distell and German businessman Hans Schrieber, is dissolving with Le Bonheur and Stellenzicht sold and Uitkyk evidently also on the market. In the meantime, Uitkyk winemaker Estelle Lourens quietly goes about her business, her Chenin Blanc 2015 (the first release since 2012) recently receiving a gold medal at the Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show.

From a single block planted in 1980, fermentation occurred spontaneously and maturation lasted 10 months in 400-litre barrels, 37% new. On the nose, yellow peach, honey, some leesy complexity and a hint of vanilla. The palate is rich and thick texture, tangy acidity lending verve. The finish, meanwhile, is long with just a touch of phenolic grip. A compelling wine and great quality relative to price at R75 a bottle.

Editor’s rating: 92/100.

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