Glen Carlou The Collection Chenin Blanc 2021

Region and Vineyards

Glen Carlou is located in the Simonsberg-Paarl region of South Africa’s Western Cape. The estate spans 145 hectares, with vineyard blocks featuring a variety of slopes and aspects, each cultivated to respect the natural cycles of the vines.

The grapes for this Chenin Blanc are sourced from 60-year-old bush vines in the Swartland region, known for its dryland conditions and complex shale/schist soils. These conditions contribute to deeply flavored and distinctive fruit, ideal for producing high-quality Chenin Blanc.

Winemaking Process

The winemaking process for Glen Carlou The Collection Chenin Blanc 2021 emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the wine to develop naturally. The grapes are handpicked, hand-sorted, and whole-bunch pressed, with only the first 55% of free-run juice used.

The settled juice ferments naturally in second-fill French oak barriques for four months and is kept on its gross lees throughout. This approach enhances the wine's texture and complexity, allowing it to fully express its unique characteristics.

Fun Fact

The Swartland region, where the grapes for this Chenin Blanc are sourced, is renowned for its dry-farmed old bush vines, which produce grapes with intense flavors and a distinctive sense of place. This method of farming, combined with the region's unique soil composition, contributes significantly to the wine's complexity and depth.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright, clear straw-yellow.
• Aroma: The nose is abundant with layered aromas of stone fruit, fynbos (a type of local vegetation), jasmine, and marzipan.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is evocative and full-bodied, with leading flavors of tangerine and mandarin. It has a slight tautness, complemented by an underlying oak dimension, leading to a long, flavorsome finish.

Wine Pairing Ideas

This Chenin Blanc pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including:

• Seafood dishes like grilled prawns or seared scallops.
• Poultry dishes such as roast chicken or turkey.
• Creamy pasta dishes like Alfredo or carbonara.
• Soft cheeses such as brie or camembert.

History of Glen Carlou

Founded in 1985, Glen Carlou quickly gained a reputation as a producer of high-quality wines through a combination of traditional viticulture and modern innovations. The estate is situated in the heart of the Paarl region, which enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

This region is ideal for viticulture, with its diverse soils including decomposed granite, clay, and alluvial deposits, providing excellent drainage and optimal growing conditions for the vines.

Glen Carlou's vineyards are meticulously managed to ensure high-quality yields. The estate emphasizes sustainable viticulture, using environmentally friendly techniques to protect biodiversity and maintain soil health. Harvesting is primarily done by hand, allowing for rigorous selection of the grape clusters.

Wine Portfolio

Glen Carlou offers a diverse range of wines, reflecting the richness and diversity of its terroir. Here are some of the estate's flagship wines:

• Glen Carlou Chardonnay: An elegant white wine with notes of tropical fruits, vanilla, and a buttery finish.
• Glen Carlou Cabernet Sauvignon: A robust red wine with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and spices, with well-structured tannins.
• Glen Carlou Pinotage: A distinctive wine with flavors of dark fruits, chocolate, and a hint of smokiness.
• Glen Carlou The Collection: A series of premium wines highlighting specific grape varieties and unique winemaking techniques.

Glen Carlou is not only recognized for its award-winning wines but also for its commitment to art and culture. The estate hosts a contemporary art gallery, showcasing works by local and international artists, thus creating a harmonious link between wine and art.