Spier 21 Gables Chenin Blanc 2022

Spier is one of South Africa’s most historic and well-respected wineries, with a winemaking heritage dating back to 1692. Situated in Stellenbosch, the estate is known for its commitment to sustainability, ethical farming, and producing wines that showcase the region’s unique terroir. The 21 Gables range pays tribute to Spier’s architectural heritage, named after the 21 historic Cape Dutch gables found on the estate. The 2022 21 Gables Chenin Blanc is a rich and complex expression of this iconic South African variety, made from old bush vines that produce intensely flavoured fruit with remarkable depth and character.

Sourced from dry-farmed, 40-year-old bush vines in the Tygerberg Hills, this Chenin Blanc benefits from cooling ocean breezes that help retain natural acidity and balance. The deep, decomposed granite soils provide excellent drainage, ensuring the vines produce concentrated berries with a strong mineral backbone. The wine is fermented in a combination of French oak barrels and concrete eggs, followed by 11 months of ageing on fine lees, which enhances texture and complexity while preserving freshness.

Appearance: Golden straw with bright, sun-kissed highlights, showing depth and richness. The wine has excellent clarity and viscosity, with slow-moving legs that hint at its full-bodied nature and well-integrated oak influence. As it swirls in the glass, it coats the sides with a luxurious sheen, reflecting its concentration and careful lees ageing. The golden hue suggests ripeness and development, while the slight vibrancy at the rim signals freshness and longevity.

Aroma: Expressive and layered, with ripe quince, baked apple, and yellow peach at the forefront. Subtle floral notes of honeysuckle and chamomile add elegance, while hints of toasted almond, vanilla, and wet stone provide depth. A touch of beeswax and caramelised citrus suggest the influence of lees ageing and barrel maturation, enhancing the wine’s complexity.

Taste: Lush and textured, with flavours of ripe pear, apricot, and baked pineapple unfolding across the palate. The creamy mouthfeel, enhanced by lees ageing, is balanced by bright acidity that adds lift and freshness. Notes of toasted brioche, honeycomb, and a subtle saline minerality add structure and finesse, while a hint of spice from the oak rounds out the palate.

Finish: Long and lingering, with a beautiful balance of fruit, acidity, and oak. The richness of stone fruit and honey is complemented by a refined minerality and a delicate touch of spice. As the flavours fade, a whisper of citrus zest and roasted nuts leaves a final impression of elegance and complexity.

Food Pairing:
Butter-basted lobster with garlic and herbs, where the wine’s creamy texture and acidity enhance the richness of the dish.
Roast chicken with a lemon and thyme sauce, as the wine’s balance of fruit and minerality complements the savoury, herbaceous flavours.