# Kelder Steen (2021)

- **Producer:** Badenhorst Family Wines
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chenin Blanc
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €36
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apricot, peach, lemon, grapefruit, biscuit, pastry, bread, almond, honey, dried apricot, orange marmalade

## About this wine

The Kelder Steen 2021 is a 100% Chenin Blanc from Badenhorst Family Wines, originating from the Swartland region of South Africa. This wine is distinguished by its source: old bush vines planted in 1971 on decomposed granite soil, located adjacent to the winery's cellar, which inspired its name. The vineyard is a single hectare, dry-farmed, and managed with sustainable practices. Badenhorst Family Wines, led by Adi and Hein Badenhorst, is a prominent name in the Swartland's modern wine movement, known for their commitment to minimal intervention winemaking and showcasing the unique character of old vines and the region's terroir. The 2021 vintage benefited from favorable weather conditions, including a cooler winter and timely rains.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyard planted in 1971 by Adi Badenhorst's grandfather.
- Name 'Kelder Steen' means 'cellar stone' in Afrikaans.
- Dry-farmed (rain-fed) vines on decomposed granite.
- Minimal intervention winemaking is a core philosophy.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright acidity cuts through richer elements like creamy sauces and fatty proteins, while its savory notes complement earthy ingredients and aged cheeses. The fruit profile harmonizes with delicate seafood and white meats.

## Wine making process

The Kelder Steen 2021 is produced using a minimal intervention approach. Grapes are whole-bunch pressed and undergo spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts in cement tanks over several months. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 11 months on its gross lees in cement tanks and old foudres. The wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered, preserving its natural character and texture. The vineyard is dry-farmed and managed using sustainable viticultural practices.