Vondeling Babiana 2020 Voor-Paardeberg

Chenin Blanc 56%, Viognier 24%, Grenache Blanc 12% & Roussanne 8%

Named in honour of Babiana Noctiflora, which is a rare species of fynbos found only on the Paardeberg Mountain behind the estate. It has a delicate yellow flower which releases its scent in the evenings to attract an extremely rare moth for pollination. The Syngrapha Circumflexa of the Noctuidae moth family is also known as Owlet moths.

Made predominantly from Chenin Blanc, picked from a single block of old vines (planted in 1987). Their age and low yield ensure consistent quality and concentration, which is why it forms the backbone of our blend. The fullness of the Chenin is tempered by the verve and high aromatics of the Grenache Blanc, Viognier and Roussanne.

The Chenin is whole bunch press and no Sulphur added to promote wild yeast development. The unsettled juice is then rapidly transferred to barrel for natural fermentation. Although a nerve-racking process, this method lends structure, complexity and longevity to the wine. The Grenache Blanc, Roussanne and Viognier are destemmed and cold fermented for 8 days on the skins before being basket pressed directly to barrel to complete fermentation. The wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation and is matured 10 months on the lees before being racked, blended and bottled.

TASTING NOTES & CELLARING & FOOD PAIRING

The wine has a pale, straw-like colour with a slight green hue. A nose with poise and promise, abundant honeyed notes, rolled oats, roasted almonds and fresh citrus blossoms. A pinch of fragrant cloves and energetic jasmine. A textured palate with layered density and length. Flavours include sweet ginger, toffee meringue, cashew nuts and a gentle oak presence.