Chenin Blanc ‘Bottle Aged’ 2019

Reviews

Swan Valley Wine Show 2023
– Best Wine In Show
– Trophy Best Chenin Blanc

Wine Companion 95 Points – Magnificent stuff, all the texture, gentle maturity, breezy freshness, honeyed notes, fresh lime and gingery apple tones, crisp edges, light chalky pucker and gentle savoury nuttiness – so well judged, such a delight to drink. It nails the brief of a fancy chenin with maturity on its hand and delivers a gift of a modestly matured and wickedly drinkable white of texture, interest and varietal verity. Excellent wine.

Ray Jordan Review 96 Points – Wow, I’ve tasted some wonderful examples of this style in the past, but this one is right up there with any of them. Shows what you can achieve with Swan valley chenin, just by ageing in the bottle. It’s pure chenin. No oak. Starting to show subtle toasty fruit characters with a zingy acid a feature in driving it to a long finish. Still crunchy and mouth wateringly refreshing but that aged character introduces another

Ray Jordan 96 Points – Wow, I’ve tasted some wonderful examples of this style in the past, but this one is right up there with any of them. Shows what you can achieve with Swan valley chenin, just by ageing in the bottle. It’s pure chenin. No oak. Starting to show subtle toasty fruit characters with a zingy acid a feature in driving it to a long finish. Still crunchy and mouth wateringly refreshing but that aged character introduces another dimension.

Tasting Notes:

The John Kosovich 2019 Bottle Aged Chenin Blanc is a stunning expression of the Swan Valley’s terroir, showcasing the remarkable potential of bottle ageing. The 2019 release builds upon the success of the 2018 vintage, offering even greater depth and complexity. This wine has over ten years of cellaring potential, promising an exciting journey as it evolves.

In the glass, the wine presents a delicate green hue, vibrant and inviting. On the nose, it reveals a captivating bouquet of citrus fruits, crisp apple, and zesty lime, layered with subtle toasty aromas that add complexity and intrigue.

On the palate, this Chenin Blanc shows a remarkable concentration of flavour, with a beautiful balance between freshness and texture. The vibrant acidity provides a refreshing backbone that complements the full, elegant finish. The wine harmoniously blends crunchy fruit freshness with gentle toasty notes, offering a mouthwatering experience from start to finish.

This wine is an excellent match for richer seafood dishes, such as grilled scallops or lobster, as well as creamy pasta dishes like mushroom gnocchi. Its structure and freshness will elevate a wide range of culinary delights.

Cellaring Potential:

With the potential to age gracefully for another five years, this Chenin Blanc will develop those beautiful toasty and lemony characteristics that make the variety so beloved. It is a standout vintage, ranking among the finest examples of the style.

Learn about John Kosovich Wines

John Kosovich Wines located on the northern side of the Swan Valley Wine Region has a long-standing reputation for producing premium quality wines. The family operated winery has a focus on quality boutique wines. Established in 1922, it sits amongst the oldest wineries operating in the Swan Valley and the oldest still run by the founding family.

John Kosovich Winery has forged a reputation for consistently producing wines of the highest order. In particular, their Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc have been recognized among the best white wines that the industry has to offer, while their reds are elegant, refined and easy drinking. The Kosovich philosophy is that the fruit should do the talking, and you will find that our reds are well rounded with oak, tannins and alcohol in harmony.

Read the latest Wine Reviews HERE

Learn more about Decanting your Kosovich Wine

Swan Valley Wine Region

Historical Roots:

The roots of winemaking in the Swan Valley trace back to the early 19th century when European settlers recognised the region’s potential for viticulture. The Mediterranean climate, characterised by warm, dry summers and mild winters, provided an ideal environment for cultivating grapes. Italian and Croatian immigrants, in particular, played a pivotal role in establishing the first vineyards and wineries, introducing their traditional winemaking techniques to the fertile soils of the Swan Valley. The first vines were planted in 1829, making the Swan Valley Australia’s second oldest wine growing region. For the next 150 years, it was WA’s only wine region. And it is still the only wine region in the world, within a 25-minute drive of a major capital city.

Soil and Climate:

The Swan Valley’s terroir is shaped by its unique combination of soils and climate. The soil is predominantly sandy loam, providing excellent drainage for the vines. The warm climate, moderated by the nearby Indian Ocean, creates an optimal grape-growing environment. These factors contribute to the distinct characteristics of Swan Valley wines, marked by bold flavours and a vibrant acidity. Winter generally receives 550-700mm of rain per annum, with the majority falling from June to September. Climate pattens found on the East Coast like El Nino and La Nina have little influence on the region. Instead, winter and spring rain is effected by another climate driver called ‘SAM’ or Southern Annual Mode. Put simply this is the Low Pressure systems that hug Antarctica get pushed further North increasing rain to Southern parts of Western Australia.

You can learn more about this climate driver here: http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/sam/

Changes Over the Last 50 Years:

The past century has witnessed significant changes in the Swan Valley’s winemaking landscape. Technological advancements, changes in viticultural practices, and evolving consumer preferences have influenced the types of grapes grown and the styles of wine produced. The shift towards sustainable and organic practices is also evident, reflecting a commitment to preserving the region’s natural beauty.

Current Trends and Future Directions:

In recent years, Swan Valley wineries have embraced innovation while honouring traditional winemaking techniques. Boutique wineries, in particular, are gaining popularity, offering visitors a more intimate and personalised tasting experience. The region is also witnessing a surge in the production of alternative varieties, catering to a diverse range of palates. As the global wine industry evolves, Swan Valley remains at the forefront of quality and innovation

You can read the latest Swan Valley wine reviews HERE