Ep 137: Mini Series – South African Wine: Chenin Blanc and old vines in Stellenbosch with Cellarmaster RJ Botha (Part 1)

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This is the first part of my mini series on wineries in South Africa. Today's episode is with Cellarmaster RJ Botha from Kleine Zalze. This is the place you want to visit for a romantic getaway, and golf and wine weekend, or when you are looking for the best wine and food pairing. Their food is another level, as is their Chenin, so we are focusing on the grape variety Chenin Blanc and Old Vines.

If you want to skip ahead:

3.11: RJ’s role at Kleine Zalze and working harvest time

6.34: Kleine Zalze’s history dating back to 1695 but modern approach and the resort that it is today

12.12: Describing Chenin Blanc

15.28: Why Chenin Blanc has done so well in South Africa

16.38: Comparing Chenin in Stellenbosch to Swartland

17.48: The decomposed granitic soils of Stellenbosch

19.25: The challenges of Chenin and it’s yields

21.32: Comparing Bush Vines to Trellised Vines

23.15: Talking about a very special old vine Chenin Block in the Firgrove region of Stellenbosch

27.17: Talking about and tasting the Vineyard Selection Chenin Blanc 2022 Vinvm £12.50

33.37: Talking about and tasting the Family Reserve Chenin Blanc 2020 Vinvm £20.50

40.42: Talking about and tasting the Project Z Chenin Blanc 2018 Fareham Wine Cellar £39.50

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Until next time, Cheers to you!