The Mailbox Block Chenin Blanc

Shellfish, Spicy food, Lean fish, Mild and soft cheese

This empowerment project has a long-term aim, bringing vineyard ownership to residents of Cape Town’s Townships through school-owned premium vineyards. In the shorter term, selected rows of vines in blocks close to the Ocean (and the townships) provide the fruit for current ranges. The proceeds of this wine will support the entrance to tertiary education for a needy child, one who would otherwise be denied.

The block was planted in 1987, giving it Heritage status, and is now a certified Single Vineyard. These weathered granite soils slope to the southwest, facing summer’s afternoon breezes off the Atlantic Ocean. This moist wind reduces the temperature around the grape bunches and leaves by around 2 degrees. It contributes freshness and crisp acidity to the depth of rich flavour in the grapes of these ancient vines.

After the crush, the juice was cold settled to partially clarify the rich sweet juice. Yeast was added to get the fermentation under way before the must was moved to the barrels. All of the wine was barrel fermented and remained on the regularly stirred lees for 15 months.