# Thistle & Weed Brandnetel Chenin Blanc (2022)

- **Producer:** Thistle & Weed Pty Ltd
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chenin Blanc
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €23
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, green fruit, blossom, lemon, apricot, pastry, cloves, vanilla, biscuit, orange marmalade, honey, almond

## About this wine

The Thistle & Weed Brandnetel Chenin Blanc 2022 originates from Stellenbosch in the Western Cape, South Africa. The wine's name, 'Brandnetel' (stinging nettle), reflects a philosophy of resilience and appreciating nature's tenacity. The grapes are grown in a unique vineyard established in 1980 as a rootstock trial, featuring over 32 different rootstocks. This vineyard, situated at 300 meters altitude on Table Mountain sandstone and granite soils, provides a distinctive terroir. Thistle & Weed is a partnership between viticulturist Etienne Terblanche and winemaker Stephanie Wiid, who aims to create wines that are a direct expression of their origin with minimal intervention.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyard is a rootstock trial block with over 32 different rootstocks.
- Named after the Afrikaans word for stinging nettle.
- Winemaker Stephanie Wiid is Tim Atkin MW's Young Winemaker of the Year 2024.
- Vineyard planted in 1980, vines are over 40 years old.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright acidity cuts through richer textures and balances savory flavors. Its minerality complements seafood and vegetable dishes, while its subtle complexity can stand up to nuanced preparations.

## Wine making process

The Thistle & Weed Brandnetel Chenin Blanc 2022 is made from 100% Chenin Blanc grapes. The fruit is handpicked and whole-bunch pressed. Fermentation is carried out using native yeasts in older, third-fill French oak barrels. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 9 months on gross lees in these barrels. The producer's approach is characterized by minimal intervention, focusing on allowing the vineyard's terroir to express itself naturally.