Chenin Blanc has a long history. First planted in the Capein the 17th century, Chenin Blanc has been traditionally cultivated in some of the oldest bushvines in the winelands.
The grape is renowned for its versatility and ageability. It’s also the most widely planted grape variety in South Africa- the country which has the largest plantings of this variety in the world.
In honour of Chenin Blanc and it’s extraordinary history, Jordan Wines in Stellenbosch added a new Chenin Blanc called Inspector Peringuey to their portfolio. The wine is in honour of Louis Albert Péringuey, a South African entomologist who specialised in Coleoptera and prehistory.
The story of Péringuey
Péringuey was a collector for museums in Senegal, Gambia and Madagascar for three years, before emigrating in 1879 to Cape Town in South Africa where he taught French at the South African College and the Diocesan College. He worked as a volunteer on Coleoptera at the South African Museum in 1882, and two years later became a member of the permanent staff. Shortly after he also took up an appointment as Inspector-General of Vineyards.
In 1899 Péringuey discovered Paleolithic stone tools of the Acheulean type at a site named Bosman’s Crossing near the Adam Tas Bridge at the western entrance to the town of Stellenbosch in South Africa. A plaque was erected at the site in 1962 by the Historical Monuments Commission with the following text:
“Stellenbosch Archaeological Reserve
In a road-makers borrow-pit here in 1899
Louis Perinquey made the first discovery
of “Stellenbosch” stone implements
and thereby proved the great antiquity of man
in South Africa.”
In 1886, Péringuey had another break through, when he discovered the infestation of Phylloxera on vines in the Mowbray district. He basically saved the Cape’s vineyards but has become a forgotten figure, according to owner Gary Jordan.
2014 Inspector Peringuey Chenin Blanc
Jordan’s three hectare Chenin Blanc vineyard was planted by Gary Jordan’s father, Ted Jordan 32 years ago. Every year the farm produces a barrel fermented Chenin Blanc from these grapes and decided to name the 2014 vintage after this legendary entomologist.
Owner of Jordan Wines, Gary Jordan at the launch of the 2014 Inspector Peringuey Chenin Blanc.
The wine was barrel fermented in 228 litre second and third fill barrels and left on the lees for 8 months. Prior to bottling, a portion of tank fermented Chenin was added to heighten the fresh citrus flavours on the wine.
Known for its vibrant aromas and its elegant, lingering finish, Jordan’s Inspector Peringuey Chenin Blanc is sure to become a South African classic!
Cellar door price: R90 a bottle.
