Breedekloof’s wide appeal
One-fifth of SA wine is produced there. EXPLORING THE VALLEY
If there’s one wine region in South Africa that is criminally overlooked it’s Breedekloof Valley. It’s even worse when you consider the small area produces about 21% of the country’s Chenin Blanc, making it a prime example of an area that knows exactly what it’s doing – just not getting the credit it deserves. And before you think this is the Steen of years ago, Chenin is big business – and delicious.
Just ahead of the Unusuals Wine Festival taking place at the Killarney Country Club on Thursday, organiser Corlien Morris hosted Attie Louw from Opstal Wine Estate to present a master class of Chenin Blancs from the area. You need to realise there are 12 stellar Chenins coming from the region, and considering there are only 17 wine producers in total in the region, they seem to know how to make this classic wine well.
The area produces about 21% – or one-fifth – of the country’s Chenin, which makes it a remarkable feat, considering SA has a higher concentration of Chenin Blanc than France. It is estimated that SA produces half of the world’s Chenin, but only about 4% of the wines of the world.
Louw explains the area: “We’re not saying we’re the best wine area for Chenin Blanc, we just focus on Chenin. We’re saying Chenin Blanc is what we do best”.
It’s safe to say that Breedekloof has a handle on the varietal – even in tough times. While the 2017 harvest wrapped a while ago, even with some challenges like water shortages and a shortened harvest period, Louw is satisfied with the haul.
“Quality has been consistent for most cultivars, with acids high at the time of picking. This brings a freshness and fruit purity to the wines, which is something the valley’s white wines are known for,” he says.
The dedication the area has to Chenin Blanc led to the formation of Breedekloof Makers – a group focused on advancing and promoting the exceptional Chenin’s from the region.
Louw, however, knows that wine drinkers and collectors can be different, and Chenin Blanc is one of those wines that speak to both. “If you buy a case, cellar three and drink three,” he says.
Most Chenin Blancs already matured and developed a distinct palette so they’re great for now – but because most from Breedekloof are matured in oak they’re great for keeping a while longer to really develop.
“I’ve noticed I don’t have to sell the region as much anymore. The wine’s starting to speak for itself,” says Louw.
Louw’s first vintage was all the way back in 2012, and he’s still presenting 2013-vintages at tastings. He says these don’t taste that old – further proof of Chenin’s great ageing potential.
The best news is, compared to 2016, this year there will be fuller 010 492-5227
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styles of wine from the area with the possibility of greater complexity. The best advice is to watch this area closely.