Steem is the traditional name for Chenin Blanc in South Africa.
Bush vine Chenin Blanc from Breedekloof , planted in 1962 on the Mossiesdrift farm which is registered as part of South Africa's Old Vine Project. These naturally low yielding vines produce 4-5 tonnes per hectare, hand picked in the middle of March. The grapes were de-stemmed and crushed, then cold soaked and slowly fermentated at 15-22°C to enhance flavours. Fermentation took place in 3rd & 4th fill barrels for about 3 weeks with a combination of wild and selected yeast strains, then left on the thick lees for 6 months and barrel aged for 8 months.
This really is a stunning wine. Pineapple and mango with hints of butterscotch on the nose, some spice too. Ripe, concentrated fruit and a creamy, textural palate are offset by taut acidity giving focus to the intense yet restrained peach and dried apricot flavours. An awesome old vine Chenin, complex and long, beautifully balanced, a true bargain and am sure a very versatile food wine.
