in the vineyard : The Semillon grapes were sourced from south-west facing, trellised vineyards in Franschhoek, some grown in dark, alluvial soils and others in deep, sandy soils. The oldest vines are almost 30 years of age, while more recent plantings are eight years old.
All the Chardonnay grapes came from Stellenbosch, grown either in yellow-brown Clovelly soils with a high gravel content and excellent drainage or deep, red Hutton soils that keep the roots cooled during the hot summer months. The trellised vines vary in age, with some as old as 20 years, while the youngest among them were eight years old at the time of harvesting.
about the harvest: Although the preceding warm winter led to lower Chardonnay yields than in previous years, the quality of the varietal was excellent, showing prominent citrus flavours. The berries were smaller than usual, ensuring concentrated flavours. The Semillon too was delivered in prime condition, with light, grassy flavours.
The early ripening Chardonnay was hand picked over a period of three weeks from mid February to early March at 21.5º Balling, showing ripe flavours with strong citrus notes. Also hand harvested, the Semillon was picked at 22.1ºBalling, during mid March, when the fruit showed light, grassy flavours.
in the cellar : Both varietals received four hours of skin contact to preserve the natural acidity of the juice, which was fermented cold for 14 days. The blend made up after fermentation, comprises 55% Semillon and 45% Chardonnay.