BLOG

Franschhoek Vigneron triumphs at 2018 Standard Bank Chenin Blanc Top Ten Challenge

Included in the list of 10 winners announced at the fifth annual Standard Bank Chenin Blanc Top Ten Challenge, Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards secured a position for a third year. This year, the Leopard’s Leap Culinaria Chenin Blanc 2016 made it onto the list together with other prominent SA wine producers. In recent years Chenin Blanc has grown in popularity amongst consumers, and today South Africa has more Chenin Blanc under vine than any other country in the world.

This year saw the challenge receiving 113 entries for wooded Chenin Blancs, and 46 entries for unwooded. All entries were tasted blind by a five member panel, with 27 wines shortlisted for the final top ten selection. The panel was chaired by Cathy van Zyl MW, and she was joined by Tinashe Nyamudoka, James Pietersen, Richard Kershaw MW and Simon Field MW. Spencer Fondaumiere joined as the associate judge.
The Leopard’s Leap Culinaria Chenin Blanc 2016 has a well-defined ripe fruit character, which brings with it aromas of Golden Delicious apple and tropical fruit flavours. These aromas are perfectly supported by sweet-spice flavours and a lively tartness. Elegant oak nuances make this wine the perfect food companion.
For all the details on the challenge and the scores allocated, visit https://winemag.co.za/standard-bank-chenin-blanc-top-ten-challenge-2018-winners/.