Chenin Blanc, Boschkloof ‘Kottabos’

Boschkloof, a family winery in Stellenbosch, South Africa, is known for its handcrafted wines, including its unique Chenin Blanc ‘Kottabos’. The Kottabos Chenin Blanc is particularly interesting due to its skin contact winemaking method, which is uncommon for white wines. This process results in a wine with added texture and unique flavor characteristics.

The grapes are sourced from the Karibib Vineyard in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch, a region known for its diverse terroir and ideal grape-growing conditions. The Karibib vineyard features weathered granite soils which contribute to the wine's drive and edge. Kottabos Chenin Blanc is made with 100% Chenin Blanc grapes and undergoes whole-bunch fermentation in open-top stainless-steel fermenters. The grapes have skin contact for 4-6 days, a method typically used for red wines, which imparts additional texture and complexity. The wine is aged for 11 months in neutral 500L French puncheons before being bottled with a gentle fining and light filtration.

Expect notes of honey, baking spices, sun-kissed hay, peach, apricot, and orange. Some vintages might exhibit floral aromas with lemon zest and fresh herbs. The wine is beautifully balanced with a textured feel, lively acidity and a mineral backbone that provides structure. The finish is clean, with a subtle touch of positive phenolics.