Chenin Blanc Old Vine 2025 | Sophie Schaal

The Sophie Schaal Chenin Blanc Old Vine 2025 is a white wine hailing from South Africa’s Western Cape, specifically within the Cape South Coast region. This vintage showcases the winery’s commitment to organic viticulture and minimal intervention techniques, resulting in a wine that reflects its coastal origins with precision and clarity.

The vineyard producing these grapes is certified organic and situated less than 40 kilometers from the ocean, benefiting from a cooling maritime influence. The terroir is characterized by soils composed of clay and slate, resting on partially decomposed bedrock. This geological composition provides excellent nutrient reserves and strong water retention properties, contributing to the structural integrity and depth of the fruit.

Vinification begins with a careful manual harvest, ensuring only optimal fruit is selected. The grapes undergo gentle pressing followed by settling to clarify the juice. Fermentation initiates naturally using indigenous wild yeasts in 300-liter barrels, allowing for a slow and complex development of aromatics. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes a total aging period of twelve months, distributed between barrels and tanks. This combination of vessels helps preserve freshness while adding subtle textural complexity.

As a 100% Chenin Blanc, this wine is expected to display the varietal’s characteristic versatility, balancing vibrant acidity with ripe fruit notes. The time in barrel likely contributes to a rounded mouthfeel and enhanced aromatic persistence. The interplay between the saline coastal breeze and the mineral-rich slate soils should impart a distinct sense of place, offering a profile that is both elegant and grounded.

This Chenin Blanc represents a focused expression of South African terroir, driven by organic practices and natural winemaking choices. It appeals to those who appreciate wines with clear varietal identity, structural balance, and a direct connection to their origin.