L’Avenir Single Block Chenin Blanc 2023

Five hours of skin contact takes place before pressing (separating the skins from the juice). The first 10% of fermentation occurs in cooled Stainless Steel tanks. The fermenting juice was then transferred to large first to third fill French oak barrels for 14 months. The wine was left on the healthy lees in these barrels and battonage was performed on a regular basis to naturally enhance the complexity and mouth feel of the wine.

L’Avenir was a pioneer of old vines Stellenbosch Chenin Blanc, with the first old vine, single vineyard wine produced in 2007. The celebrated Block 30 Chenin Blanc vineyard has stood the test of time and consistently produces wines of exceptional quality and character. The L’Avenir Single Block Chenin Blanc epitomises authentic, South African Chenin Blanc and is known for its ageability, texture and fine balance. Situated in a secluded little valley next to a lake on L’Avenir Estate, Block 30 vitally benefits from the cooling effect of breezes that sweep across the water. Homogenous, poor soil limits vineyard vigour, resulting in balanced vines. The combination of a unique micro-climate, moderate growth and old vines yield small bunches, with tiny berries and concentrated flavour. The 2023 vintage benefited from ideal dry and moderate growing conditions. Low yields resulted in grapes of excellent quality, fruit intensity and good acidity. The vintage promises to deliver elegant wines with moderate to low alcohol and concentrated flavours.

14 months

Chenin Blanc

A fine choice for decadent seafood, such as abalone, steamed cod or pan-seared scallops.

Veritas 2025: Gold