The 2023 marks our sixth vintage release of the ‘Two Terraces Vineyard’ Chenin Blanc.  

The 2023 vintage presented significant challenges. Persistent rain and cloud cover throughout much of the summer culminated in the devastating Cyclone Gabrielle on the 14th of February. Chenin Blanc is a late ripening white varietal, and hence was still hard and green when the deluge hit.  The fruit remained in excellent condition. Our patience was rewarded with a harvest of ripe Chenin Blanc in great condition, albeit a lot later than usual. We consider this a triumph of site and viticulture under the season’s conditions.

Handpicking and a light whole bunch press, yielded clear juice which was run directly to our Cast Stone egg shaped tank for fermentation. We were careful not extract green phenolics from this cool vintage. Building texture throughout the maturation was the key to unlocking the fruits potential to shine. Yeast lees contact and spring malolactic fermentation provided the necessary elements.

Pale straw colour with green hues. Gala apple, lemon curd and freshly baked bread characterise the nose.  The palate possesses mineral notes, positive salinity and line of sappy fruit.

For those who want more detail, download the PDF here.