2020 Testalonga El Bandito Skin Chenin Blanc
Swartland, South Africa
Thrilling, rare skin contact Chenin Blanc, perhaps Testalonga's masterpiece.
$74.00
Out of Stock
About The Wine
Phenomenal Chenin Blanc, sourced from a 50 year-old organic vineyard, and macerated on skins for 12 days (actually a little less than previous releases).
Heady aromatic mix of spice, citrus fruits, some minerality even, then the palate displays power and weight rather than just the backdoor bitterness of some skin contact white wines.
A wine for a big-arse glass when you have time on your hands to savour something different.
About Testalonga
Craig and Carla Hawkins launched Testalonga in the north of Swartland, South Africa in 2008.
They are part of a revolutionary ground swell taking place in South African wine, where traditions are being challenged and brave new territory is being explored. The painfully small amount of wine that this duo produces gets snapped up in short order the world over. Known for their striking intensity and nervy energy, Craig and Carla's wines are on the cutting edge of the natural wine movement in their country.
Swartland, South Africa
From The Producer
Hand harvested. Destemmed 100% into 1500L open fermenters. Fermented for 12 days on the skins before being pressed into one 3000L Foudre. No yeast inoculation and fermented at ambient room temperature of 16 degrees. Full malolactic fermentation takes place. Bottled after 11 months in Foudre.
A very light clarifying filtration was done, not fined. We have found our sweet spot that we enjoy for Skin Macerated whites and enjoy the balance we get from these flavours. We have reduced the length of time we leave the wines on the skin as the goal here is to find elegance and focus within this particular style which we love.
Blend : Chenin Blanc (100%)
Drink Until : 2035
Swartland, South Africa
Critic Reviews
"10 days on the skins. A compelling nose of flowers, fynbos, ginger and other spice plus orange and peach. The palate has an excellent core of fruit with punchy acidity before a savoury finish. This has lovely texture, leaving a powdery sensation in the mouth. An intricate, intellectually engaging wine." - Christian Eedes (Winemag.co.za)
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