in the vineyard : A blend of Chardonnay from 3 complementary locations. The first, smallest component, from Ocean-facing Stellenbosch-Helderberg vineyards. The 2nd from the area between Paarl and Malmesbury and the 3rd from the Aprilskloof valley on the Pardeberg Mountain, in the Swartland. Each contributing a different facet to the eventual blend. Green harvest thinning was carried-out sufficiently early in the growing cycle, allowing for a smaller yield (+/- 50l / ha) than customary at this market level. 2010 was a bit of a weird vintage –a very late flowering followed by an early harvest. We feared the worst at that point. After a less hot than usual summer subsequently, with crop yields very low this year all-round, between 25 – 40%, depending on varietal and location, the grape quality surprised us with its excellent concentration. The outcome has been very focused and clear flavours in the wines, which makes this unoaked Chardonnay a true, unadulterated expression of the Chardonnay grape. 2010 has surprised us all by its quality, not that we are complaining!
about the harvest: Separate parcels picked individually and by hand at varying ripeness, in order to build good complexity of acidity, fruit, depth and minerality.
in the cellar : Vinified with minimum skin contact, using free run juice only. Reductively handled to obtain fresh, clear juice. Cool fermentation in stainless steel tanks with neutral yeast (favouring fruit enhancement). No oaking. Kept in tank on lees for 6 months, with regular battonnage. Components blended relatively early to ensure integration and stability of individual varietal freshness. Minimal fining prior to filtration. Focus on fruit retention, natural amplification of flavours through lees work and fresh, natural minerality and acidity.