# Mielie Green (2024)

- **Producer:** Testalonga
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** 100% Chenin Blanc
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €24
- **Aromas & flavours:** fruit, honey

## About this wine

Testalonga's Mielie Green is a captivating white wine from South Africa's Swartland, crafted from 100% old-vine Chenin Blanc. Winemaker Craig Hawkins, a champion of natural winemaking, employs a hands-off approach, allowing the unique terroir of four organically farmed vineyards to shine. The result is a wine with a medium-plus body, an off-dry character balanced by bright acidity, and a gloriously complex, 'chewy' texture. Its name, meaning 'corn' in Afrikaans and also a family nickname, hints at the wine's intention to bring simple pleasure and enjoyment. This is a wine that speaks volumes about its origin and the philosophy behind its creation.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Mielie' is Afrikaans for corn, and it's also the nickname of winemaker Craig Hawkins' daughter.
- The wine is made from 100% Chenin Blanc grapes, sourced from a blend of old bush vines planted between 1961 and 1998.
- All vineyards are farmed organically and practice dryland farming.
- The wine has a very low sulphite addition, typically around 20 ppm.

## Food pairing

The Mielie Green's balance of off-dry sweetness, bright acidity, and medium-plus body makes it versatile. Its minerality and subtle pithiness can stand up to richer dishes, while its acidity cleanses the palate. The honeyed notes can complement slightly sweet or savory elements, and its natural wine character pairs well with less processed, flavorful foods.

## Wine making process

The Mielie Green is a product of Craig Hawkins' dedication to natural winemaking. Grapes are hand-harvested from organically farmed, dryland vineyards and fermented with native yeasts in concrete tanks without temperature control. Malolactic fermentation occurs naturally, followed by aging in concrete. The process is characterized by minimal intervention, very low sulphur additions, and a light filtration, all aimed at preserving the wine's vibrant fruit, minerality, and complex texture.