The wait is finally over! Le Chant Stellenbosch proudly unveils Le Chant Rouge 2020, the much-anticipated second vintage of their exquisite red blend. Born from the celebrated 2020 vintage in the Polkadraai Hills, this wine is a testament to its rich winemaking legacy and a masterful expression of seven distinct grape varietals.
At its heart, Le Chant Rouge 2020 is a classic Bordeaux-style blend featuring Merlot (42%), Cabernet Sauvignon (24%), and Cabernet Franc (20%). Yet, it dances with intriguing notes of savoury spice from Shiraz (5%) and vibrant Sangiovese (4%), elegantly rounded out by Malbec (3%) and Petit Verdot (2%).
Nestled on Stellenbosch’s south-western slopes, just kilometres from False Bay, Le Chant’s vineyards bask in cooling sea breezes. Ancient decomposed granite and koffieklip soils, coupled with a unique south-westerly aspect, nurture the grapes to leisurely ripeness, preserving their character and ensuring a refined structure.
Winemaker Petri Venter credits organic viticulture and this unique Polkadraai terroir for the wine’s visceral expression. “The mild 2020 summer led to optimal ripeness and concentrated flavours,” Venter explains. “This allowed for an astonishing palette to create the Le Chant Rouge.” He describes the art of blending as “conducting a symphony orchestra,” where each varietal plays its part in a harmonious whole that captures the essence of the terroir.
After 24 months of careful aging in French oak, foudré, and cement, the result is a wine with a firm Cabernet backbone, Merlot’s plushness, Sangiovese’s juicy energy, and Shiraz’s spicy intrigue – a “Signature Le Chant Rouge” defined by vibrant fruit, silky tannins, and captivating aromatic complexity.
