Bellingham The Bernard Series Old Vine Chenin Blanc – Goodbye Chardonnay, Hello Chenin Blanc

100% Chenin Blanc from South Africa.

SRP of $30 and available for as low as $18. Sample received courtesy DGB for review purposes.

From the bottle:

“The gnarled bark and weathered stems of these old bush vines are a testament to the age old saying “good things come to those who wait”. From the 40-year old vines, through the 12 month maturation, to your hands, it truly is Time that has been the master craftsman of this wine.

The even ripening and outstanding flavour intensity expressed in this vintage of high altitude old bush vine vineyards compelled our winemaker to craft this unique barrel matured Chenin Blanc. In true Bernard nature these vineyards were discovered and earmarked only for the best. Distinctively bold and lavishly perfumed with intriguing layers of tropical fruit, peaches and cream perfectly completed by seamlessly integrated vanilla oak spice.

14.0% Alcohol”

Today’s wine is another in The Bernard Series line from Bellingham. We previously covered the The Bernard Series Small Barrel SMV as a Saturday Splurge and were frankly, blown away by it. It was with great anticipation then, that we dove into one of the white wines in the same collection.

The 2010 Bellingham The Bernard Series Old Vine Chenin Blanc begins with a wonderful aroma of tropical fruit, peaches and vanilla cream along with a touch of spice. The wine tastes really delicious with rich, creamy and intense flavors of tropical fruit, green apple and a little vanilla. Some nice spice comes forward on the long finish along with a bit of tart fruit. A great alternative for those buttery Chardonnay lovers — actually this is a great alternative for all Chardonnay lovers since the oak is not overdone here. Excellent!

See a listing of local retailers selling this wine here.

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