It is the time of year for Chenin Blanc, specifically South African Chenin. When there is a chill in the air and all your fall recipes come out of hiding, reach for Chenin to match with your favourite fall meals. Although French Chenin can be beautifully lean and mineral, it is South African Chenin that boasts the richness and ripeness to match the season. There are even hints of summer flowers to take you back to a warmer time or remind you of what is happening on the other side of the world – springtime in South Africa.
Tasting Notes: Bellingham Chenin Blanc 2019 leads with ripe apple, stone fruit and lemon drop, followed by marmalade and honeysuckle flavours that linger through the finish with a light oak spice.
Enjoy With: Roast poultry and squash, roast ham and potatoes, chicken pot pie, fish dishes with rich sauces, or charming just on its own.
Style: A ripe, fruity, full-bodied white wine.
Terroir/Region: Bellingham Old Orchards Chenin Blanc is made from predominantly old bush vines in the South African region of Paarl. Paarl is the home of weathered shale soils, many older Chenin Blanc vines, and is ideal for dry farming conditions. The Paarl region itself is warm and dry (a ‘Mediterranean climate’ to us wine geeks) which pushes vines to produce ripe, concentrated fruit.
Producer: Bellingham was established in 1693, but truly stepped forward in 1943 when visionary couple Bernard and Fredagh Podlashuk transformed a neglected farm into a winery that would pioneer many firsts in the South African wine industry. Today, while still inspired by its history of innovation, Bellingham is firmly set in the 21st century, producing structured wines with an unmistakable sense of place and style.
Availability: Bellingham Old Orchards Chenin Blanc 2019 will be available for online ordering and in the Vintages section of your local LCBO on Saturday, October 31, but some stores may already have it on the shelf. Pick up your bottle now, or maybe a few if you’re cooking in batches!
Check LCBO store inventory
Price: $16.95
LCBO#: 484055
Size: 750mL
Alcohol Content: 14.3% alc./vol.
