COLOUR
White
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2024
GRAPE
Chenin Blanc 92%, Sémillon 8%
PRODUCER
Chris & Suzaan Alheit
REGION
Western Cape
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium - Full
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Cartology Bush Vines by Chris & Suzaan Alheit is a white wine from the Western Cape, South Africa, produced from a blend of 92% Chenin Blanc and 8% Sémillon. The wine is a tribute to the Cape's viticultural heritage, sourced from a collection of old-vine, dry-farmed bush vineyards across various sub-regions of the Western Cape. The name 'Cartology' signifies the Alheits' dedication to mapping and understanding these unique vineyard sites. The 2024 vintage, characterized by low yields and exceptional quality, is considered by the producers to be one of their best releases, showcasing remarkable energy and balance. The Alheits' winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention and a focus on terroir-driven expression.
ALCOHOL
13.5%
AVG. PRICE
€35
STYLE
Natural
When to drink
Now or Later
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Cartology means 'the study of maps,' reflecting the winery's focus on mapping and understanding special vineyard sites.
Fact 02
The blend features Chenin Blanc (92%) and Sémillon (8%), with Sémillon vines nearing 90 years old.
Fact 03
Vineyards are dry-farmed bush vines, with most parcels aged between 40 to 50 years.
Fact 04
The 2024 vintage is described by the producer as 'very good, even excellent wines, but not much of it.'
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The winemaking process for Cartology Bush Vines begins with whole-bunch pressing and minimal juice settling. Fermentation is driven by indigenous yeasts across a range of vessels, including cement eggs, old foudres, and barrels, with durations varying significantly by parcel. The wine undergoes extended aging on its lees for over a year, followed by a further period of rest before being bottled unfined. This meticulous, low-intervention approach is designed to capture the essence of the old-vine fruit and the unique terroir of the Western Cape.
