COLOUR
White
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2023
GRAPE
Chenin Blanc
PRODUCER
Alheit Vineyards
REGION
Western Cape
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Full
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Huilkrans is a 100% Chenin Blanc from Alheit Vineyards, originating from the Citrusdal Mountain appellation (Skurfberg) in the Western Cape, South Africa. The grapes are sourced from old, dry-farmed bush vines planted between 1974 and 1989 on a site characterized by deep red sand over red clay soils at an elevation of 450 meters. The 2023 vintage is considered a notable expression from this vineyard. Alheit Vineyards, established in 2010 by Chris and Suzaan Alheit, focuses on producing authentic white wines that celebrate the Cape's vinous heritage, prioritizing old vines and a minimalist winemaking approach.
ALCOHOL
13.3%
AVG. PRICE
€55
STYLE
Natural
VEGAN
YES
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
10-12°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Grown on vines planted between 1974 and 1989.
Fact 02
Yields are exceptionally low, around 1.5 tons per hectare.
Fact 03
Fermented with native yeasts in large foudres and old barrels.
Fact 04
The vineyard is situated 450 meters above sea level.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The winemaking process for Huilkrans begins with hand-sorted grapes that are whole bunch pressed. The juice undergoes wild fermentation with native yeasts in foudres and old barrels, with no additions. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on lees for around 12 months, then rested in tank on fine lees for an additional six months before bottling. New oak is deliberately avoided throughout the process.
