Kleine Rust White Blend
(Chenin Blanc / Sauvignon Blanc)
Dry White Blend - Stellenrust is establishing itself as one of the largest growers of bush vine Chenin Blanc in Stellenbosch. The Kleine Rust White is the starting point in our drive to showcase the versatility of, especially Chenin Blanc in the Bottelary Hills.
IN THE VINEYARDS:
The grapes used for this wine are harvested from 5 – 25-year-old bush vines planted high up in the Bottelary Hills. The soil types vary from red clay to sandy soils. Grapes harvested from vineyards planted to sand ripen a bit faster due to higher temperatures in the vineyards – therefore Sauvignon blanc from cooler vineyards is blended with the Chenin Blanc to regain some fresh acidity in the wines.
VINIFICATION:
Grapes are picked at optimum ripeness around 22 Balling and the juice allowed some skin contact with the grapes. The juice starts with a native yeast fermentation before it is inoculated with a special brew of different commercial yeast strains.
It is fermented cold in stainless steel tanks over a period of 2 to 3 weeks at temperatures varying between 11 – 15 °C and left on its primary fermentation lees for at least 3 months before refinement and bottling.
VARIETIES:
84% Chenin Blanc, 16% Sauvignon Blanc
TASTING NOTES:
The nose expresses guava, white peach and pear drop notes. The palate shows luscious ripe tropical fruit with a hint of herbs, a lingering aftertaste of grapefruit and a zesty acidity. A great accompaniment to spicy chicken dishes or fresh Caesar salads.