Ormonde Chip off the Old Block Chenin Blanc

Ormonde Chip off the Old Block Chenin Blanc is a testament to the unique terroir of the Ormonde Estate and the venerable age of its vineyards, which date back to the early 1970s. This 100% Chenin Blanc is crafted to express the intrinsic qualities of its single vineyard origin, highlighting the varietal’s deep connection to South Africa’s winemaking heritage.

Technical Analysis:

Alcohol: 13.93%
Residual Sugar: 2.5g/l
pH: 3.39
Total Acidity: 6.5g/l
Vinification:

Harvest Date: February 2019
Vineyard: Hand-picked from a dry land vineyard, ensuring optimal fruit selection and preservation of the grape’s natural flavors.
Winemaking Approach: A hands-off approach in the cellar emphasizes the wine’s natural characteristics, allowing the terroir and the quality of the grapes to take center stage.
Tasting Notes:

Aroma: The wine opens with rich aromas of guava and tropical fruits, which are quintessential markers of high-quality Chenin Blanc.
Palate: On the palate, this wine displays a fresh minerality and vibrant fruit flavors that are both refreshing and complex.
Finish: The finish is beautifully lingering, with a crispness that invites another sip.
Ageing Potential:

This wine is best enjoyed within 1-2 years of vintage to appreciate its youthful vibrancy and freshness.
Food Pairing:
The Ormonde “Chip off the Old Block” Chenin Blanc pairs exquisitely with delicate seafood dishes. A recommended pairing is scallop and grapefruit salad served on a bed of greens with parmigiana crackers, where the wine’s acidity and fruit profile will complement the sweet and citrus notes of the dish.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this wine chilled, ideally at 8-10°C, to enhance its fresh and fruity characteristics.
This Chenin Blanc is perfect for occasions that call for a wine that is both sophisticated and refreshing.
Enjoy the Ormonde “Chip off the Old Block” Chenin Blanc as a prime example of how a single vineyard can express its distinctive qualities through meticulous viticulture and thoughtful winemaking.