Savage Never Been Asked to Dance 2022

Chenin Blanc from a Paarl vineyard planted in 1956. Fermented and matured in older 600-litre Stockinger barrels. The nose shows lime and white peach with fresh herbs and floral perfume in the background. The palate is lean and energetic – pure fruit and zippy acidity before a pithy finish. Tightly wound, long and dry. Alc: 13.6%. 96 Points – Christian Eedes, winemag.co.za

Chenin Blanc from 68-year-old dry farmed bush vines grown on decomposed granite soils in Paarl. Grapes were whole bunch pressed with oxidative juice handling before a natural fermentation and malolactic fermentation, followed by 10 months ageing in old 600 litre Stockinger barrels.

“2022 was a challenging and hot vintage. Fortunately for us the vineyard has been improving with all the love and care over the years and we have seen more balance in the canopy and crop. The vines generally show so much more vitality year after year. Only perfect bunches were picked and processed. Granitic soils allow for a natural freshness and grip in the wines with characteristic pineapple pastille, apple, oatmeal and fynbos flavours. The vintage shows the typical saline core and purity we have come to expect from this old girl. Never Been Asked to Dance drinks well young but will reward for many years to come.” – Duncan Savage