Celebrated Stellenbosch wine estate Simonsig has unveiled the latest vintage of its award-winning barrel-fermented Chenin Blanc.
The 2022 vintage of this wine has ushered in a new era for Chenin Blanc at Simonsig as their first wine to gain official Old Vine status.
Formerly known as Simonsig Chenin Avec Chêne, this single vineyard Chenin Blanc has been renamed Langbult Steen and given a refreshed look to commemorate this historic milestone in the wine’s evolution. Staying true to terroir, it takes its name from the vineyard site tended to by three generations of the Malan family.
“Langbult translates to ‘long hill’ and literally describes the vineyard’s layout,” says Michael Malan, Simonsig cellarmaster and third-generation winemaker. “The vines grow there in ancient, weathered shale soils and are robust and resilient. Time has made it one with the elements, and all of this is gloriously expressed through the fruit.”
As was the case with the Chenin Avec Chêne, the Langbult Steen is part of Simonsig’s Stellenbosch Terroir Selection range that includes Tiara, Frans Malan Cape Blend, Redhill Pinotage and Merindol Syrah. “This collection truly reflects the essence of Stellenbosch’s terroir, each wine meticulously handcrafted with the utmost care and attention to detail,” adds Michael.
The maiden vintage of Langbult Steen was characterised by healthy grapes and an outstanding growing season. The cellarmaster describes the wine as having complex aromas of orange blossom, melon and dried apricot complemented by a hint of ginger spice. It has a complex palate with tangy acidity that carries the flavours of white pear, lime and green apple. The wine has a beautiful minerality, but not without a light creamy texture from the lees contact in barrel.