Experience Fire by Night 2024, an exceptional single-origin Chenin Blanc from the producer’s very own Nuwedam property in the Paardeberg. This region holds a mythical place in the heart of Cape winemaking, serving as a hub for the quality revolution sweeping the area and home to some of South Africa’s most revered wine figures. Once undervalued, the Paardeberg now proudly showcases its abundant riches: pure decomposed granite soils and a wealth of dry-farmed old bushvines.
Nuwedam, situated on a high ridge (300-350m above sea level) in the heart of the Paardeberg, spans 20 hectares of mature, dry-farmed Chenin Blanc bushvines. The pure decomposed granite soil yields wines of remarkable clarity and focus. Planted between 1972 and 1985 on various slopes (East, West, North), these vines provide a diverse palette for crafting the best possible wine each vintage. These deep-rooted vines are the pride and joy of the estate, humming their secret tune from the granite, calling you near.
The winemaking process for Fire by Night is one of careful simplicity. Grapes are hand-sorted and whole-bunch pressed. The juice is then very lightly settled, maintaining its natural cloudiness, with no additions. Wild fermentation takes place in cement eggs, foudres, and old barrels of various sizes, lasting approximately one month. The wine then rests on its lees for around 12 months, followed by a further five months in tank on fine lees, without fining, prior to bottling.
The 2024 vintage offers an understated yet hauntingly beautiful nose of green citrus and thatch. The palate is an unforgettable journey: a mineral, geo-electric storm of citrus oil and driving acidity, finishing with the audacious confidence of a matador. Be warned, this wine may just inspire some delightfully selfish behavior at your table.
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