Description
The Babiana noctiflora is a rare species of fynbos found only on the Paardeberg Mountain.
It has is a delicate yellow flower, which releases its scent in the evenings to attract moths for pollination.
Vineyards
The Chenin Blanc grapes originate from a 30-year-old vineyard, aptly named The Graveyard in respect to the historic family graveyard it encloses.
The vines naturally yield no more than 5 tons/ha. This ensures consistent quality and concentration, which is the reason it forms the backbone of our blend.
Grapes
Chenin Blanc and Viognier are favourites for white blends in the Voor Paardeberg.
The fullness of the Chenin Blanc and the structure and aroma of the Viognier is tempered by a strong mineral character typical of our granite soils.
The Chardonnay and Grenache Blanc lend vigour and freshness to the blend. All grapes are hand-picked at optimum ripeness in the early hours of the morning.
They are then chilled in a cold room and processed the following day.
The grapes are not crushed, but are whole-bunch pressed straight to barrel.
No sulphur or yeast is added to the juice and fermentation is 100% natural.
Although a nerve-racking process, this method lends structure, palate weight and complexity to the wine.
Each component is fermented separately and will undergo a limited amount of malolactic fermentation.
The wine is matured on the lees for 7 months before being racked and blended. The final blend is then returned to barrel for a further 4 months of maturation.
Tasting notes
Tint: A subtle hue of pale straw.
Aroma: A complex nose of soft fruit and spicy richness. Understated at first but opens beautifully to expose sweet wild honey, peach blossoms, pineapple and toasted cashew nuts.
Palate: Wonderfully dense with a taught mineral freshness. Rose petals and white pepper are softened by honeyed pears.
The oak is seamlessly integrated and smooth. The mid-palate is creamy, yet poised and the wine has a long, lingering finish.
Food pairing: Please, do not over chill the wine. You will be well rewarded should you decant the wine 30min before consumption.
Enjoy with rabbit in white wine sauce with shallots or simple aromatic Asian dishes.
Vondeling Chardonnay Awards
Drinks Business 2013 Silver – Vondeling Chardonnay 2010
John Platter Wine Guide 2013 Four Stars- Vondeling Chardonnay 2010
White Wine from TheDrinkShop
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