Wines Stellenbosch Wildeberg - The Pledge Old Vine - 2022

Viniou Reviews

The Wildeberg The Pledge Old Vine 2022 from Stellenbosch is a white wine that exemplifies the remarkable diversity and quality of South African viticulture. Crafted from old vines, this cuvée benefits from deep-rooted plants that deliver both concentration and complexity to the wine. While the exact varietal blend is not specified, South African old vine whites from Stellenbosch often feature Chenin Blanc, sometimes complemented by Semillon or other heritage varieties, resulting in wines of layered texture and nuanced character. The 2022 vintage conditions were favourable, with a growing season allowing for optimum ripeness and freshness, ensuring a balance between vibrant fruit expression and structured acidity.

Stellenbosch, set within the renowned Coastal Region, is South Africa’s most prestigious wine area. The region’s Mediterranean climate, bolstered by cooling Atlantic breezes from False Bay, preserves acidic tension in the grapes and extends the growing season. Soils here are diverse, ranging from decomposed granite to sandstone, imparting unique mineral undertones to the wines. Stellenbosch boasts a long history dating back to the 17th century, with a strong reputation for both innovation and respect for the land, particularly in the cultivation and preservation of old vine vineyards.

Pairing Wildeberg The Pledge Old Vine 2022 is a pleasure. Its likely natural richness and depth, given by old vines, call for equally flavourful dishes. Locally, this wine would shine alongside West Coast crayfish or a Cape Malay chicken curry, the creamy texture and subtle spice of the food matching the wine’s complexity. Further afield, try it with roast poultry, dishes featuring fresh herbs and lemon zest, or even hard cheeses such as aged Comté, which complement its potential nuttiness and breadth.

For serving, pour the Wildeberg The Pledge Old Vine 2022 slightly chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. This allows the full aromatic spectrum — from citrus orchard fruit to savoury, mineral accents — to emerge, while preserving the wine’s lively freshness and structural precision. Decanting for thirty minutes is optional but can help to reveal further layers of aroma and taste.