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Two for Tuesday : Chenin Blanc
Two For Tuesday: Syrah!
June 1, 2019
How cold is too cold?
June 9, 2019Two for Tuesday. This week Chenin Blanc. One wine each from the two most important regions for Chenin Blanc in the world – Vouvray and South Africa (specifically Wellington).
One’s immediate reaction is the distinct difference in colour between the two. The Charles Bove 2017 Vouvray is typical yellow green while the Bosman Family Vineyards 2016 Optenhorst single vineyard Chenin Blanc is much more golden in colour. This is likely because of three factors.
One, the cooler climate of the Loire compared to the warmer climate of Wellington.
Two, the bush vines used to make the Optenhorst where planted in 1952.
Three, the grapes for the Optenhorst were whole bunch pressed and left overnight to settle before drawing off clear juice.
The differences continue on the nose and palate.
The off-dry Vouvray has a flinty minerality and some honey and poached pear. It has medium acidity. With a nice medium length finish. Think grilled prawns, veggie curry or mature semi-sweet cheeses.
The Openhorst is dry and has more acidity. The nose is more nutty and floral – think pear blossoms – and has wonderful aromas and flavours of golden delicious apple and peach. There is a slight touch of minerality and it has an elegant fruit driven finish. Think spicy foods, lean fish such as tuna or salmon and mild and soft cheeses.
Two wonderful examples of a great variety, one from the cooler climate of the Loire and the other from the much warmer climate of Wellington SA.
