Chenin Blanc 2024

From the boutique Tembela labelmeaning "faith, hope, belief" in isiXhosa and a tribute to winemaker Banele Vakeles late motherthis 2024 Chenin Blanc is sourced from 40yearold dryland bush vines planted on decomposed granite soils at Geluksoord Vineyard, near the Bottelary ward of Stellenbosch In its fifth release, Tembela continues to build a reputation for elegance and character.

Vinification & Elevage: 100% whole-bunch pressed, racked overnight Fermented naturally in older 500L oak barrels Aged on lees for 10months, then gently sheet-filtered; unfined, with minimal sulphur Tasting Notes: Appearance: Pale straw with brilliant clarity. Nose: Honeysuckle, quince, yellow peach, dried pineapple, white florals, and a touch of leesy nutmeg.

Palate: Silky texture with crunchy citrus, orchard fruit, fresh melon, and a structured savory finish thats pithy yet poised. Finish: Long, saline-tinged, and refreshingly textured. Food Pairing: Perfect with creamy cheeses (e.g., aged Cheddar or Gruy*re), oyster roasts, light curry, grilled seafood, or a nutty risotto; the wines texture and freshness make it superb as an aperitif.

Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled at 1012C. Ideal lightly chilled to showcase its vibrant fruit, creamy lees complexity, and saline restraint. Accolades: Christian Eedes (Winemag.co.za): 94/100 a striking rendition layers of flavour think dried pineapple, white florals and peaches texture and savoury nuances on the finish Tim Atkin MW: 93/100 leesy, savoury and mineral kelp, lemongrass and yellow apple flavours and a pithy, refreshing finish Technical Details: Grape: 100% Chenin Blanc (ca. 40year-old bush vines) Soil: Decomposed granite Alcohol: 13,5% ABV Bottle Size: 750ml pH: approx. 3.5; Total Acidity: 5.4g/L; SO: 39ppm Production: Extremely limitedapprox. 320 cases