A sophisticated Chardonnay that avoids excessive tropical fruit, focusing on freshness, minerality, and layered complexity with a clean, refined finish, making it a standout example of South African Chardonnay

Sourced from select vineyards in the Hemel-en-Aarde and Overberg regions. Produced using the traditional method of transferring the whole grape clusters straight from harvesting into the press and running the juice off into a settling tank. Fermented and aged in 228, 500-litre French oak barrels as well as in foudres. Naturally fermented in barrel, where it remains for 9 months before bottling. No SO2 or enzymes are added prior to fermentation.

Tasting Notes: Sea shells, flint and yellow stone fruits show on the nose ahead of a full, mouth-coating palate with elements of golden delicious apple, salted caramel, lime and beeswax. The finish is saline and long, recalling the ocean with a nori-like character to the lingering aftertaste. A Chablis-like oyster shell minerality refines the finish.

Grapes from seven different sites planted variously across Shaw’s Mountain (Overberg), Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, Ceres Plateau and Piekenierskloof. Matured in foudre and predominantly older oak. Lemon and orange to the fore on the nose. The palate shows pure fruit – clean, vital, and finishing with a pleasing pithiness. Not especially complex yet shows some weight and is thoroughly delicious. Alc: 13.4%. CE’s rating: 91/100.

ANALYSIS: ALC 13.56% | TA 6.7g/L | pH 3.20 | RS 3.9g/L