Chardonnay
75cl * 14% ABV * Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
Capensis is a family of three wines dedicated exclusively to Chardonnay. The name Capensis is taken from the Latin word meaning “from the Cape,” and pays homage to their home on the Western Cape. The ancient soils, dramatic landscapes and historic vineyards of Stellenbosch, Overberg and Robertson are the foundation for Capensis. Winemaker Graham Weerts has carefully selected the finest Chardonnay vineyards within the Western Cape to create these expressive wines.
As a contrast to the winemaking practices of the flagship Western Cape Chardonnay – which is a blend of several distinct sites from across the Western Cape – winemaker Graham Weerts focuses on the unique terroir of Stellenbosch for Silene. A blend of two mountain vineyards, the estate Fijnbosch vineyard and the neighbouring Nooitgedacht vineyard, provide an aromatic explosion of lime, lemon, orange blossom, nectarine and a nuance of fresh crème brûlée. A full palate of citrus and rich minerals drives a saline finish, light on its feet yet dense and long.
Drinking Window: 2022 – 2026
"Saline and refreshing on the nose – influences seem cooler than for the Cambria Chardonnays. A serious, deep-flavoured, complex wine with an appetising green edge to the palate. Quite long. Much more expensive than most South African Chardonnays but one can see that a lot of effort has gone into this. Very long. A complex wine to be taken on its own terms rather than as a copy of white burgundy, with a zesty, dry finish." 17 / 20 points, Jancis Robinson