2024 Storm Point Chenin Blanc, Swartland, South Africa

ABOUT THIS WINE

Storm Point Chenin Blanc was made to show what a well-adapted variety can do in the Swartland’s unruly landscape and intense growing season. Thanks in large part to the granitic soils found in the Swartland, the hallmarks of this wine are intense aromatics, powerful flavors and bright acidity. As for the name, Storm Point is a reference to the ‘Cabo das Tormentas’ or ‘Cape of Storms’ that Bartolomeu Dias rounded successfully in 1488, and it pays homage to the rugged, wind-blown climate of the Swartland.

The grapes were hand harvested from multiple vineyards from across the Swartland from 25-year old vines, mostly planted in decomposed granite. A cool and controlled spontaneous fermentation occurred in stainless steel and the wine was left on its gross lees for nine months. Stainless steel was chosen to encapsulate the freshness and vitality of the grapes. The wine was bottled with a light sheet filtration, fining, and dosage of sulfur. 

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

The mid-15th century marked the beginning of the age of exploration. Seafaring expeditions in search of riches of the East and West ignited a battle of first claims. The Spanish and Portuguese were the most active during this time. It was the edict of Price Henry the Navigator and later King John II of Portugal that led to the discovery of the sea route to the bounty of spices and silk of India by way of the rounding of the Cape of Good Hope of present-day South Africa. The Portuguese aptly named this southerly point – Cabo das Tormentas – or “Cape of Storms.” Fast-forward more than 400 years and this wild frontier continues to amaze and implore understanding. Winemakers from around the world have flocked to South Africa for its old vines, untapped potential and immense opportunity. Storm Point represents the ideal that good things come to those who wait. It was 400 years in the making and the right formula of timing, people and nature which helped to create wines meant for all. Wines that define the core of South African wines: purity, texture and concentrated elegance.