Longavi wines are a collaboration between two friends from different continents: Chilean producer Julio Bouchon and South African winemaker David Nieuwoudt, owner of the renowned Cederberg winery. They began this project in 2012 to produce wines with freshness, personality, and diversity. They combine grapes and terroir that beautifully express each vineyard. The vineyards for this Chenin Blanc are located in the Maule Valley south of Santiago. Here, the grapes enjoy a beautiful climate, resulting in perfectly ripe grapes. The project name, Longavi, means "snake's head." This name is derived from a stratovolcano called Nevado de Longavi, and the vine wreath on the label represents the Ourobos, an ancient African symbol representing the eternal cycle of nature's renewal.
The ripe grapes are harvested entirely by hand early in the morning. Thirty percent of the bunches undergo a three-day cold maceration. The grapes are then pressed and blended. Malolactic fermentation then takes place in cellars with indigenous yeasts. Finally, the wine is aged for another four months.
The result is incredibly pure and takes you on a journey south. The aroma reveals notes of red fruit and rose petals, complemented by subtle spice notes. On the palate, flavors of raspberry jam and sour cherry emerge. A wonderful balance of aromas and flavors. This refreshing wine is a wonderful complement to a hot summer day.
