With strong influence of Alex Dale's upbringing in Burgundy, the making of this Chardonnay is also adapted to our particular conditions in the Cape. Restraining acidity, citrus flavours and gentle oaking the introverted side of its character; ripeness, length and great depth the expansive side. Genuinely mineral, with a crisp lime-citrus edge and an elegant yet intense length on the palate. A Chardonnay daring to be individual, focused on backbone and not butter.
in the vineyard : 3 parcels: The first 2 on ocean-facing, south-easterly & westerly slopes of the Helderberg Mountain - 1 of the coolest spots in Stellenbosch. The vines, grown in Clovely soil (decomposed granite), are mature and virus free, usually yielding 40 hl/ha and providing wonderful fruit depth. The third, a beautiful vineyard on the south-eastern slope of the Simonsberg Mountain, providing rare flinty & mineral flavours.
2006 was a cooler summer than average, resulting in longer ripening season and elegant wines