DeMorgenzon DMZ Chenin Blanc (750ml)
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Wine Type
White Wine
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Size
750ml
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Vintage
2023
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Country
South Africa
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Region
Western Cape
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Sub-Region
Stellenbosch
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Grape
Chenin Blanc
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Farming Method
ConventionalMost products with this label come from producers who do their best to avoid any intervention at all but it’s possible that some of the aforementioned preventative measures and additions are deemed necessary. Learn More
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ABV
13.5%
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Food Pairing
PoultryWarm Vegetable Dishes
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Vegan Friendly
Yes
Situated in Stellenbosch, DeMorgenzon (the morning sun) was purchased in 2003 by Wendy and Hylton Appelbaum and since then, they’ve transformed the estate into a 91ha “garden vineyard,” with 55ha dedicated to carefully tended vines. With parts of the estate ranging from 200m to 400m above sea level, the views of the mountains, the sea, and the surrounding area from the property heavily influenced what was planted and where; taking colours into account. Additionally, 10% of the estate has been set aside for the restoration of Renosterveld (a threatened habitat in the Cape Floral Kingdom), where 15ha of pine forest and other invasive species have been cleared and more is being done as necessary.
Reflected in their Maestro series, since 2009, Baroque and early Classical music has been played to their growing vines as well as in the winery and cellar; the estate reports positive results from playing harmonious music. Although the winery is most widely recognized for their estate grown Chenin Blanc, they also dabble in other Southern France varietals such as Roussane, Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Marasanne, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Grenache.
Tasting Notes
Pronounced aromas of green apple, apricot, peach, hints of honey and floral notes characterize a fresh and upfront nose. The palate has a medium weight with a slightly round and rich texture that is balanced by Chenin Blanc’s racy acidity. The oak component is subtle and balanced and reveals its presence by light vanillin notes. The overall impression is one of a clean and balanced wine.
Method
Old bush vines of Chenin Blanc grow on weathered granite and are picked at optimum ripeness. Pre-cooled fruit is lightly destemmed and crushed, followed by a short skin contact. Free run and medium press components are combined with hard press fractions kept separate. Fermentation occurs naturally with wild yeasts in a combination of stainless steel tank and old French oak barrels. The final blend is made up after 4-6 months of ageing on the lees then lightly filtered and stabilized for bottling.
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