Description
South Africa has become the spiritual home of old-vine Chenin Blanc, and few producers have done more to showcase the grape’s potential than Spice Route.
Founded in the Swartland by Charles Back, Spice Route has helped put this once-overlooked region on the map, championing old vineyards, sustainable farming and wines with a strong sense of place.
Indeed, “without [Charles]…the Swartland would still be regarded as a rural backwater”, wrote Tim Atkin MW, who awarded the winery ‘Cru Bourgeois’ status in his South Africa Classification in 2019.
Rather than chasing international styles, the winery focuses on expressing the unique landscapes and heritage vineyards of the Western Cape.
‘Tarragon’ is produced from a single vineyard of mature Chenin Blanc vines planted in 1978. Located on the slopes of the Swartland, the vineyard benefits from cooling influences that help preserve freshness while allowing the fruit to develop impressive concentration. The old bush vines are dry farmed, forcing their roots deep into the soil in search of moisture. This natural struggle produces small yields of intensely flavoured grapes and contributes to the wine’s remarkable depth and character.
The vineyard’s decomposed granite and iron-rich soils provide excellent drainage and help create a wine that combines richness with precision. With more than four decades of age behind them, these vines produce fruit of exceptional quality and complexity.
Spice Route has built its reputation on discovering and preserving some of South Africa’s most distinctive vineyard sites. The winery works closely with old-vine growers throughout the Swartland, believing that great wines begin in the vineyard. Careful viticulture, low yields and a minimal intervention approach in the cellar allow the character of each site to shine through.
This is a beautiful Chenin Blanc with both energy and substance.
The nose opens with aromas of ripe peach, pear and pineapple, supported by notes of citrus blossom, honey and a subtle savoury complexity. On the palate, the wine is beautifully textured, with layers of juicy stone fruit, baked apple and lemon curd balanced by vibrant acidity; a staff favourite!
A gentle touch of oak adds hints of vanilla spice and toasted nuts without overshadowing the fruit. As the wine develops in the glass, notes of quince, honeycomb and wet stone emerge, adding further complexity. The finish is long, fresh and persistent, combining richness from the old vines with the bright acidity that makes Chenin Blanc such a versatile food wine whilst also being very enjoyable on its own in the garden!
Enjoy with roast chicken, grilled seafood, creamy pasta dishes, pork loin or mature cheeses.