Huilkrans is a magnificent single-origin Chenin Blanc that has captivated enthusiasts and critics alike, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the esteemed Magnetic North in terms of quality. If Magnetic North is the Skurfberg’s tenor, then Huilkrans is its deeper, richer baritone. It resonates with a profound, full-bodied character, yet it’s unmistakably a product of this great appellation.
Huilkrans originates from the Oudam farm, a true gem nestled in the mountains. This isolated site, at 450m above sea level, is blessed with old vines, low rainfall, and deep red sand over red clay – a perfect recipe for exceptional wine. The dry-farmed Chenin parcels, planted between 1974 and 1989 on a gentle southern slope, feature widely spaced bushvines (low density) that naturally yield a concentrated 1.5 tons per hectare.
The grapes for Huilkrans are meticulously hand-sorted and whole-bunch pressed. The juice is then very lightly settled, retaining its natural cloudiness, with no additions. Wild fermentation occurs in foudres and old barrels of various sizes, predominantly 400L, lasting approximately one month. The wine then matures on its lees for around 12 months, followed by a six-month rest in tank on fine lees without fining before bottling. This simple, careful winemaking approach ensures purity and expression.
Prepare for a beautiful, broad nose of ripe citrus rind, blossom, and apple. Huilkrans is incredibly easy to love, unfolding on the palate with a flourish of flavor and depth. That classic mineral undertow, a signature of Skurfberg wines, is ever-present. Despite its graceful feel, this wine possesses remarkable power. As one friend eloquently put it, “This wine is like a gazelle, if that gazelle had grown up on a diet of leopard meat and steroids.”
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