At a glance

Producer

DeMorgenzon

Region

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Grape variety

Chenin Blanc

Wine type

White

Body

Medium-bodied and fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$40

Tasting profile

Ripe stone fruits, citrus zest, honeyed notes balanced by vibrant minerality

Evolution: Will develop more complex layered honeyed and nutty characteristics with bottle aging

At peak: Rich, balanced, complex with depth, and sustained acidity for freshness

Structure

Acidity

High, crisp and vibrant

Tannins

None (white wine)

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

10+ years due to concentration, acidity, and producer quality

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2050

Optimal window

2019 to 2053

Current status

Approaching peak drinking condition

Current condition

Youthful intensity with fresh acidity, evolving richness

The 2018 vintage at DeMorgenzon had excellent ripening conditions producing concentrated Chenin Blanc with vibrant acidity allowing a drinking window well into the late 2020s. The Reserve bottling is a step up in quality and structure, designed for extended aging.

Food pairing

Pairs well with seafood (crab, lobster), poultry with creamy sauces, mildly spiced Asian dishes, and rich vegetarian dishes like butternut squash risotto.

Serving

Serving temperature

10-12°C (50-54°F)

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

DeMorgenzon employs sustainable viticulture practices including water conservation through drip irrigation, solar-powered winery operations, minimal intervention winemaking, and environmentally friendly packaging materials. Organic farming methods are encouraged in their vineyards though not fully certified organic for this bottling.

DeMorgenzon is well-regarded for sustainable farming practices that protect biodiversity and reduce chemical use. Their adherence to IPW standards and active investments in renewable energy and water management positions the wine as highly sustainable in global context.