Product Overview
Pedigree: The Beaumont family farms in Bot River, a sub-zone of the cool Walker Bay Wine District. The farm hails back to the 1700's. At that time, it was owned by the Dutch East India Company. It produced food and wine for the Dutch East India's vessels that rounded the Cape on their trading missions. Cape Town had a safe port and access to fresh fruits, vegetables and cured meats required by the mariners on their long journeys. Raoul and Jayne Beaumont bought the farm, Compagnes Drift, in 1974 and set about renovating it. Jayne Beaumont produced the first wine under the family name, a Pinotage, in 1994. Today, Jayne's son Sebastian, makes the wine. The Beaumont Chenin Blanc 2022 is one of two varietal Chenins made at Beaumont.
Grape Varieties: 100% Chenin Blanc
Vinification: 2022 was a fine vintage. After a good, cold, wet winter the season remained cool right through harvesting allowing development of aromatic and intense fruit. The grapes were picked slightly early to preserve freshness and balance. This was followed by a long and slow fermentation in concrete and stainless-steel tanks. Both natural and cultured yeasts were employed.
Ageing: The Beaumont Chenin Blanc was matured on gross lees for 4 months to add some extra weight and complexity.
Analysis:
Alcohol: 12.34%
Residual Sugar 5.4g/l
pH 3.25
Total Acidity 6.5g/l
Tasting Notes:
Color: Almost water white, a very pale lemon with the lightest green tinge.
Bouquet: A slightly citrus entry with white peach and the faintest hint of tropical fruit; guava and mango. A slightly stony minerality adds to the balance and complexity.
Palate: Palate echos the nose. The wine is slightly saline with a satisfying amplitude balanced by a bright freshness. There is a generous broadening as the wine traverses the palate, like a peacock spreading its tail feathers. The zingy acidity holds exuberant fruit in check. A lovely example of somewhat rare South African cool climate Chenin Blanc.
When to Drink: Drink now through 2026
Serving Temperature: 50°F - 55°F
Food Pairing: Lovely with seafood, especially shellfish. Try with peri-peri prawns. The The wine will also pair well with carefully spiced Thai curry.
