Joostenberg J. Chenin Blanc 2016
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2020-
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Winemaking is not about systems and recipes. Not if you want to make distinctive wines. Everything done at Joostenberg's winery (and vineyards) is aimed at ensuring that their wines are both delicious and true to their origin.
Since great wines begin with great grapes, Joostenberg's aim is to grow the best possible grapes in as "natural" a way as possible – hence organics, dry-farming, etc. They simply then guide the wines through the winemaking process without the interference of unnecessary additives or modifications. Some call this "minimalist winemaking".
Unquestionably one of the most diverse grape varieties, Chenin Blanc can do it all. It shines in every style from bone dry to unctuously sweet, oaked or unoaked, still or sparkling and even as the base for fortified wines and spirits. Perhaps Chenin Blanc’s greatest asset is its ever-present acidity, maintained even under warm growing conditions. Somm Secret—Landing in South Africa in the mid 1800s, today the country has double the acreage of Chenin Blanc planted compared to France. There is also a new wave of dedicated producers committed to restoring old Chenin vines.
Flanked by majestic mountains on either side, the Paarl district is a valley whose most valuable water source is the Berg River. While sometimes during dry and hot summers, the vineyards in the valley need supplemental irrigation, those vineyards on the eastern slopes where water retention is better, aren't irrigated.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Shiraz, Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc enjoy great success in Paarl.