Discover the deep, rich majesty of Alheit Vineyards Huilkrans Chenin Blanc 2025, an absolute masterpiece of single-origin winemaking from the Citrusdal Mountain ward. Acclaimed winemakers Chris and Suzaan Alheit craft this highly allocated, rare old-vine treasure. Critics routinely laud the Huilkrans label with elite praise. Previous vintages have captured incredible 98-point scores from Master of Wine Tim Atkin and outstanding 97-point ratings from Christian Eedes of Winemag.co.za. The 2025 release stands proudly as a monumental addition to this legacy of excellence.
The 2025 Vintage Profile
Huilkrans originates from spectacular, dry-farmed old bush vines planted between 1974 and 1989 on the Oudam farm. These majestic vines grow on a gentle southern slope at 450 meters above sea level. This terroir features an isolated landscape with low rainfall and deep red sand over red clay. Winemaker Chris Alheit famously calls Huilkrans the deep baritone voice of the Skurfberg mountains. The 2025 growing season coaxes a grand, effortless expression from this grand cru site. The nose presents beautiful, wide aromas of ripe apple, citrus oil, and orange blossom.
Tasting Notes
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Aroma: An effortless and grand bouquet of ripe orchard apple, sweet citrus rind, and delicate orange blossom fills the air.
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Palate: The palate rolls on for ages with a far-reaching fullness and lovely cleansing acidity. It finishes with a beautifully proportioned, sappy, and driving finish.
Artisanal Vinification & Ageing
The cellar crew hand-sorts the low-yielding crop before initiating a gentle whole-bunch pressing. They keep the raw juice very cloudy and allow it to settle lightly without any artificial additions. Wild fermentation takes place spontaneously inside old wooden foudres and neutral 400L barrels. The wine matures on its fermentation lees for 12 months before resting in tank on fine lees for an additional six months. The winery bottles this profound mountain expression completely unfined and unfiltered to retain its incredible textural volume.
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