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Dornier Donatus Chenin Blanc, Semillon
2008
Chenin Blanc
Crisp
South Africa
Seafood
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Located in the Western Cape region of South Africa, Stellenbosch is one of the country’s most renowned wine regions. The well-drained soils of the Cape Fold Mountain foothills coupled with a dry Mediterranean climate make this an ideal place for growing a wide range of wine grapes, from reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz to whites like Semillon and Chenin Blanc, which in South Africa is often called “Steen.”
Though less aggressively oaky than most new world Chardonnay, this is a full-flavored white capable of handling flavorful food. Semillon has a great affinity for white fish, while Chenin Blanc brings generous tropical and stone fruit flavors that pair well with fruit salsas and contrast well with fresh herbs.
In 1995, engineer Christoph Dornier acquired the first of two old farms and set out to establish a first-class modern winery, which was finally completed in 2003. The family winery controls approximately 170 acres of vines planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Chenin Blanc. Dornier’s wines are made by J.C. Steyn, who holds a degree in viticulture and oenology from the nearby Stellenbosch University and has considerable international experience.
Donatus, a blend of Chenin Blanc and Semillon, is Dornier’s flagship white wine. Full-bodied and complex, it has enticing pineapple, cream, lemon zest, jasmine and nectarine aromas and flavors of apricot, mandarin orange, peach, grapefruit and caramel.