2015 De Morgenzon Reserve Chenin Blanc $35.95

()

2015 De Morgenzon Reserve Chenin Blanc $35.95

Winery Tasting Notes: “This show stopping white displays effusive aromas of white flower, stone fruit, honey and toast which erupt into opulent flavours of pear, orange blossom, caramel and spice. It’s a world class wine offering that strikes a brilliant balance between lush fruit and crisp, mouth-watering acidity.

Blend: 100% Chenin Blanc
Alcohol Level: 13.8%
Cases Produced: Less than 300 cases imported
Winemaker Name: Carl van der Merwe
Maturity: Drink Now – 2022

Pairings:   Poached Lobster/Shellfish, sautéed Chicken, Soft Cheese including Brie, Mascarpone

Drew_july2012_25011

 

Staff Review:  DREW MOFFAT – Wow! That’s all I can really say about this wine from De Morgenzon winery out of Stellenbosch, South Africa.  Even though its new to us De Morgenzon first started in 1682 when it was part of the Uiterwyk (“Outer Ward”) one of South Africa’s oldest wine farms.  Purchased in 2003 by Hylton and Wendy Appelbaum, the property was quickly transformed into one of the premier estates for Chenin Blanc / Chardonnay / White Wine in all of South Africa.  Without a doubt, this is currently one of my (if not the) favorite wineries in South Africa.

It all started back in March when we decided to introduce a new program called “Wine Wars” to Carpe Vino’s docket of wine tasting/purchasing events.  While tasting subtle candidates to represent their respected country we found De Morgenzon as the diamond in the rough.  We purchased their 2014 Reserve Chenin Blanc and liked the wine so much we sold it all (only 5 cases for Northern California) and then proceeded to start selling the 2015 for the event.  We now have sold over 20 cases of this wine and have quickly become one of the top sellers of DMZ wines not only in California but nation-wide.

The thing is that this fruit is expensive to cultivate, even an economically challenged country like South Africa where labor is CHEAP.  I always tell people that if this wine that sells for $35.95/bottle was produced in California it would cost nearly triple the price!  The terrain is perfect for this variety and at nearly a 1000ft of elevation and steep hillside slopes this Reserve Chenin Blanc is powerful with flavors reminiscent to Chardonnay.  This is one you must try…and hopefully if you are like me will be forever a fan of De Morgenzon for years to come.  Cheers!

 

Wine Spectator Points:

Wine Advocate Points:

Alcohol Level: %

Cases Produced:

Winemaker Name: