2020-C Beaumont Chenin Blanc, Bot River, Walker Bay, South Africa (750ml)   

About the Icons
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Beaumont is a family owned and managed farm situated in the heart of the town of Bot River ("Botter Rivier") in the Overberg. The farm, home to the region’s oldest wine cellar, was originally established in the 1700’s by the Dutch East India Company. In the 1940’s the wine business was re-started but then production was discontinued again in the late 1960’s.

Jayne and Raoul Beaumont bought the farm Compagnes Drift in 1974 and set about replanting the vineyards. The creation of wines under the family name was only initiated years later, however, and now bear the crest of the Beaumont family. Originally found in the family signet ring, the roaring lion in the family crest represents honor and courage and serves as a symbolic message of balance—a quality they strive to replicate in the wines.

The Beaumont Chenin Blanc is made from 95% Bot River fruit and 5% from the Overberg. This was only the second time that Beaumont had to source from outside the Bot River appellation (yields were very low due to the drought). A cool, wet winter helped vines rest but the summer was dry, resulting in tiny berries, high natural acid levels and great fruit purity with absolutely no rot!

The grapes were picked early to preserve freshness and balance in the finished wine. Fermentation was very slow and cool, and a new press (used for the first time) produced very clean juice. Batches were fermented separately, in concrete and stainless steel tanks, with different yeast strains for added complexity. The batches were then blended after fermentation and aged for 6 months on gross lees in tank. The 2020 vintage is a beautiful expression of Chenin Blanc, capturing the full flavor and potential that the Bot River terroir has to offer. It is a delicious example of cooler climate Chenin Blanc, dry and refreshing.

Pale golden hue. Enticing, peachy aromatics that are echoed on the palate, but intensified. This crisp, lively wine shows flavors of underripe apricot and yellow peach, quince, ripe yellow apple, Meyer lemon and a trace of honey on the bright, mouthwatering finish. Absolutely delicious!