Bellingham, The Bernard Series Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2016, Coastal Region, South Africa

Tasting Note: Oaked chenin blanc is a pleasure few in United States will ever experience but would appreciate if they could.

Medium-intensity lemon in color, this wine has an aromatic, medium-plus-intensity nose of baked golden apple, clove and honey.

On the palate the dry, medium-plus-bodied chenin blanc is creamy in texture with medium-plus-intensity flavors suggested on the nose supported by medium-minus acidity and completing with a baking-spice-infused, medium-plus finish.

The wine is complex and will improve with age.

Bottle Note: The gnarled bark and weathered stems of these old bush vines are a testament to the age old saying “good things come to those who wait.” From the 40-year old vines, through the 12-month maturation, to your hands, it truly is time that has been the master craftsman of this wine. Our founder, Bernard Podlashuk, is celebrated for his daring vision, adventurous approach and creative risks that helped shape the course of South African wine. His tenacity and innovative flair inspired this chenin blanc, a thoroughly contemporary, elaborately intricate wine with a compelling individualistic character that reflects the tremendous history of some of the oldest bush vines in the Cape. Handpicked and naturally fermented to preserve the opulent tropical fruit flavors with hints of honey and oak spice on the finish.