COLOUR
White
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2023
GRAPE
Chenin Blanc
PRODUCER
Alheit Vineyards
REGION
Western Cape
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Alheit Vineyards' 'Fire by Night' 2023 is a 100% Chenin Blanc from the Nuwedam vineyard on the Paardeberg in the Swartland, South Africa. The wine is made from dry-farmed bush vines planted between 1972 and 1985 on decomposed granite soils. The name 'Fire by Night' holds personal significance for the Alheit family, drawing inspiration from a biblical narrative. The winemaking philosophy centers on allowing the vineyard's character to shine through, with minimal intervention, aiming to capture the authentic voice of the land.
ALCOHOL
13.5%
AVG. PRICE
€63
STYLE
Natural
VEGAN
YES
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
10-12°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Named 'Fire by Night' referencing a biblical story of guidance.
Fact 02
Crafted from vines planted between 1972 and 1985.
Fact 03
Represents a bygone era of low-tech viticulture.
Fact 04
Ranked #47 in Vinous Media's Top 100 wines of 2024.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The winemaking process for 'Fire by Night' involves hand-sorting and whole-bunch pressing of the Chenin Blanc grapes. Fermentation is carried out using wild yeasts in a mix of cement eggs, large foudres, and old barrels, lasting about a month. The wine undergoes minimal intervention, with no added yeasts, enzymes, acidification, or sulphur before fermentation, and no blocking of malolactic fermentation or new barrels. Aging occurs on lees for 12 months, followed by five months in tanks on fine lees without fining.
