COLOUR
White
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2023
GRAPE
Chenin Blanc
PRODUCER
Alheit Vineyards
REGION
Western Cape
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium - Full
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
The Alheit Vineyards Magnetic North 2023 is a 100% Chenin Blanc from the Citrusdal Mountain ward in the Western Cape. Established in 2010, Alheit Vineyards is a family-run estate focused on minimal intervention winemaking. The grapes for Magnetic North are sourced from two dry-farmed, ungrafted Chenin Blanc parcels planted in 1981 and 1984, located at 520 meters elevation on iron-rich sandy soil over red clay. The name 'Magnetic North' is inspired by the vineyard's orientation and the powerful allure of its terroir. The 2023 vintage experienced a cool growing season, contributing to the wine's vibrancy. The winemaking philosophy emphasizes authenticity and transparency, utilizing old barrels, clay amphorae, and concrete eggs while avoiding new oak and additives.
ALCOHOL
13.5%
AVG. PRICE
STYLE
Natural
VEGAN
YES
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
10-12°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Vineyards are ungrafted and over 40 years old.
Fact 02
Grown at 520 meters above sea level.
Fact 03
Soils are rich in red, iron-heavy sand.
Fact 04
Minimalist winemaking with no new oak.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The winemaking process for Magnetic North begins with hand-sorted, whole-bunch pressed Chenin Blanc grapes. The juice undergoes a light settling before wild fermentation with native yeasts commences in a combination of a large foudre and a cement egg, typically lasting about a month. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees for around 12 months. It then spends an additional five to six months in tank on fine lees before bottling, with no fining applied. This approach emphasizes purity and the expression of the vineyard's unique characteristics.
