JORDAN INSPECTOR PERINGUEY CHENIN BLANC 2015

In 1899, after travelling by wagon through Stellenbosch Kloof, he made the first discovery of Early Stone Age tools near Stellenbosch. Five hundred thousand year old Acheulean hand-axes made from quartzite cobbles similar to those found by Louis Péringuey are still commonly found in the vineyards at Jordan Wine Estate. These are centred on the oldest French-clone Chenin Blanc vineyards grafted onto American rootstock that were planted by Ted Jordan in 1983.

The distinct ravine which embodies Stellenbosch Kloof harnesses all the qualities of a well-orientated compass. Varying elevations and aspects allows us to grow a selection of classic varieties to specific sites that optimise this expression through their location. The cooler south- and east-facing aspects, unique in Stellenbosch, hosts the more sensitive and aromatic white-skinned grape varieties.

Stellenbosch Kloof enjoys a cooler Mediterranean climate with maritime influences from False Bay, 14km to the south, and a refreshing breeze channelled from the West Coast’s Benguela current 24km to the north-west. These two breezes culminate at the top end of the ravine and bring in early morning mists, especially from False Bay. Consequently, temperatures in our meso-climate can be measured at least 3° Celsius cooler than inland Stellenbosch during ripening periods. This adds a unique characteristic to Jordan wines.