The most focused and ambitious wine in the release, and the clearest expression of Chardonnay’s flexibility and diversity.
Fruit selection is precise:
Robertson for limestone-driven salinity and lemon zest
Darling for tension and precision
Stellenbosch for depth and richness
Fermentation took place across stainless steel, traditional 205L Champenoise barrels, and ceramic pots, introduced to preserve brightness while adding texture. The wine shows a nervous, energetic tension that promises excellent ageing potential.
“100% Chardonnay. 40% of grapes from Napier, 33% Darling and 27% Robertson. Primary fermentation in a combination of stainless tank, ceramic pots and barrel. 55 months on the lees. The nose is refined and cool-toned, showing lime, lemon and green apple, some floral perfume and a touch of flinty reduction. The palate is precise and unshowy, offering condensed fruit, vibrant acidity and a creamy, finely textured mousse, carrying through to a long, saline finish. More understated than the remarkable 2020 but still streets ahead of most local bubbly. Alc: 11.72%.” 95/100 – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za
