SIMONSIG RELEASES INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED 05 CHENIN AVEC CHêNE

Simonsig Estate, acclaimed Stellenbosch producer of fine Chenin blancs, has just released the 2005 vintage of the gently wooded Chenin Avec Chêne, one of two Simonsig wines to be rated among the world’s finest expressions of this varietal at The Rendez-Vous de Fontevraud in Loire, France this year.

Both the 2005 vintages of Simonsig Chenin Avec Chêne (Chenin with oak) and the unwooded Simonsig Chenin Blanc attained the prestigious rating as Grandes Expressions de Chenin, showing the finest expressions and characteristics of this varietal. The competition, previously known as Rendez-vous du Chenin, is held every two years to raise the global profile and consumer appeal of Chenin blanc and Cabernet Franc wines. Wines classified as Grandes Expressions de Chenin are recognised for the ability of the winemaker to show respect for the terroir and attain the pure expression of the varietal.

Chenin blanc was the first wine released by Simonsig’s late founder Frans Malan in 1968 and the Chenin Avec Chêne 2005 is a remarkable result of the experience of more than four decades of passionate dedication to this particular varietal.

A slightly more serious wine than the unwooded Simonsig Chenin Blanc, the Chenin Avec Chêne 2005 has more depth of flavour through the gentle contact with French oak without obscuring the delicious fruitiness. Simonsig Chenin Avec Chêne 2005 was fermented in French oak barrels and spent 12 months on the lees. The result is a delicate wood integration and a silky seamless texture without compromising on fresh fruit appeal. On the nose this wine has intense ripe yellow apple and tropical fruit aromas with a subtle infusion of honeyed Botrytis and toasty oak. Sunripened Chenin flavours coat the palate and the delicately handled oak enhances the depth of flavour. A distinct mineral character leaves a clean finish and balances the slight sweetness of the fruit, described by Winemaker Johan Malan as the ‘sunkissed allure’ of the wine.
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Simonsig Chenin Avec Chêne 2005 two and last…/

Johan recommends his wine to be served slightly chilled as an aperitif or with rich, ripe creamy cheeses.

At its best within three to four years of the vintage date, Simonsig Chenin Avec Chêne 2005 comes slightly higher up the price chain at around R70 per bottle and is available on the Simonsig Estate and at fine wine outlets.

For more information contact the Simonsig tasting room at Tel: (021) 888 4915.