2023 Savage Never Been Asked To Dance, Chenin Blanc, Western Cape

“Located on the border between Paarl and Stellenbosch, this superb Chenin Blanc hails from a 1956 block on the granite soils that the variety loves so much. Fermented and aged in old Stockinger barrels, with full malolactic, it’s a very Burgundian interpretation of the Cape’s signature white grape, with a leesy, creamy palate, subtle wood and a steely, chiselled finish.”

96 Points, Tim Atkin MW

“The Savage Wines 2023 Chenin Blanc Never Been Asked To Dance sources its fruit from a vineyard planted in 1956 between Paarl and Stellenbosch on granitic soils. The one-hectare site has southeast-facing slopes that are turned into the prevailing wind. When Duncan Savage first came, one-third of the vines were dead. He went through the grueling process of replanting them. This vintage is still made with the old-vine fruit, but starting with the 2024 vintage, some of the new vines will be blended in. Those younger plants bring more freshness. The challenge of this vineyard is getting ripeness. Stockinger foudre are used for aging, with some neutral oak. This wine is gorgeous, with a note of reduction that lifts to unveil a beautiful core of stone fruit, poached pear and spicy saffron honey. This is among the best Chenin Blancs I tasted on my trip to South Africa. Unfortunately, only 3,000 bottles were made.”

95+ Points, Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate

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