Wild House Chenin Blanc Coastal Region

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Wild House Chenin Blanc, hailing from the Coastal Region of South Africa, unfolds a remarkable sensory journey with its rich aromatic and flavor profile. This wine is an exemplary testament to the intricate elegance Chenin Blanc can achieve when nurtured in this unique region. The first encounter is of ripe peach and tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and passion fruit, invoking an exotic bouquet that’s inviting and vibrant. Citrus notes of lemon and mandarin introduce a fresh zest that uplifts the aromas.

The palate mirrors the complexity of its aromatic profile. Stone fruits such as apricot and nectarine harmonize with the initial peach aromas, while a subtle thread of honeydew melon adds a sweet, juicy layer. Accents of lychee introduce a unique sweetness and floral quality that is both surprising and delightful in its execution. A hint of green apple and pear introduces a crisp tartness that elegantly balances the inherent sweetness, further brightening the wine’s profile.

The finish captivates with its bright, juicy quality—a refreshing lemony acidity that cleanses the palate, encouraging the next sip. Its mouthfeel is subtly honeyed, attributed to nine months of lees contact, imparting a gentle weight and texture, while the wine sustains a crisp acidity that maintains its freshness and quenches effortlessly.

Pairings & Suggestions

• Seafood: The wine’s crisp acidity pairs brilliantly with seafood dishes like salt and pepper squid, tempura fish, and grilled prawns. The zesty citrus notes complement the briny taste of oysters, creating a classic wine pairing.
• Poultry: With its fruity and crisp profile, this Chenin Blanc enhances dishes like lemon herb roasted chicken, grilled chicken salad, and chicken tacos with mango salsa, resonating with the wine’s citrus and tropical flavors.
• Vegetables: Roasted or chargrilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cauliflower are perfect companions, matching the wine’s fruit-forward and crisp acidity.
• Cheese: Soft cheeses like feta, ricotta, and chevre enhance the wine’s texture. The briny and creamy characteristics of these cheeses beautifully contrast the wine’s floral aromas.
• Light Pasta: Pasta primavera, lemon garlic spaghetti, and pesto pasta are ideal, bringing out the wine’s vibrant citrus and herbal notes.

  A History Steeped in Tradition

The story of Wild House Chenin Blanc is deeply intertwined with the history of winemaking in South Africa, and particularly the prominence of Chenin Blanc. Introduced to South Africa during the 17th century by Dutch settlers, Chenin Blanc, often called ‘Steen’, has become the most widely planted grape in the region. It is celebrated for its versatility and its ability to express the diverse terroir of South Africa.

This varietal thrives in the coastal regions, benefiting from the Mediterranean climate and varied soil types. The rugged terrain and environmental conditions contribute to the distinctiveness and character of these wines. Wild House Chenin Blanc is produced by Wildeberg, a winery that values traditional methods and the pure expression of the terroir.

The vineyard practices emphasize sustainability, using old, dry-grown bush vines to produce grapes with deep, concentrated flavors. This commitment to minimal intervention in the winemaking process allows the natural characteristics of the grapes to shine through, thus producing a wine that not only reflects the region’s typicity but also its rich cultural heritage in winemaking.

Storage Instructions

Store Wild House Chenin Blanc in a cool, dark place between 10-15°C (50-59°F), ensuring it is laid horizontally. Avoid exposure to sunlight and heat fluctuations.