Wine of Origin Stellenbosch

South African Chenin Blanc can be expressed in so many ways, that in some senses, a blend is the only way touch on them all. The Damascene Chenin Blanc is a blend of fruit from three sites in the Bottelary ward; Sonop, Houmoed, and Mooiplaas. All three sites are situated on hilltops.

Sonop Vineyard
Site:
 Situated on a peak at the north-eastern extreme of the mountain range.
Elevation:
 280m ASL
Character:
 These vines, planted in pure shale soils in 1982, contribute a lean, elegant citrus acidity and explosive floral elements.

Mooiplaas Vineyard
Site:
 Situated on a granitic outcrop, overlooking False Bay and Table Bay, the cold ocean breezes render this west-facing site the coolest of the three.
Elevation:
 320m ASL
Character:
 These vines, planted in 1980, grow in very rocky decomposed granite soils. They contribute concentrated stone fruit, as well as freshness and vibrancy to the blend.

Houmoed Vineyard
Site:
 Situated on a saddle between two peaks, the slope is steeper than any other vineyard we work with. The vineyard has a perpetual channel of cool air from False Bay flowing straight across the vines.
Elevation:
 300m ASL
Character:
 This is one of the very few vineyards planted on Greywacke soils. The 49-year-old vines bring that characteristic old vine concentration of fruit, and chalky texture.