Wolvenhoek Impisi Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2022

Wolvenhoek is a property situated on the slopes of Wellington’s Groenberg acquired by Belgian Eric Sas in 2018. There are some 20ha under vineyard including various blocks of old-vine Chenin Blanc, Ronald Spies, previously of Warwick in Stellenbosch, consultant viticulturist. Tasting notes and ratings for the two top-end vintages of Chenin Blanc released to date as follows:

Wolvenhoek Old Vine Chenin Blanc Reserve 2021
Price: R245
Grapes from a 1977 and a 1986 block. Matured in French oak for six months. The nose shows a waxy note before citrus, apple, vanilla and spice. Dense fruit, tangy acidity and a savoury finish – quite forceful despite a moderate alcohol of 13.27%.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

Wolvenhoek Impisi Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2022
Price: R245
Impisi means “wolf” in Zulu. Grapes from the 1977 block alone. Pretty aromatics of pear, peach, jasmine and fresh herbs while the palate is light-bodied and fresh with a pithy finish. An elegant wine with pure fruit and plenty of verve, the oaking well judged. Alc: 12.38%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

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