Vondeling Chardonnay 2017

Vineyard
This tiny, tree-lined vineyard is tucked away in the upper valley of our farm, protected from harsh sunlight and extreme temperatures, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly. These moderate temperatures help preserve the grape’s natural acidity and fresh citrus aromas. The yields are kept low to eliminate stress in the vine and ensure good, uniform ripeness. The soil is made up entirely of well-weathered granite.

Vinification
All grapes are picked at optimum ripeness in the early hours of the morning.
They are then packed into a cold room to be chilled further for processing the
following day. The grapes are whole bunch pressed, which reduces the
absorption of coarse phenolics and helps retain more of the grape’s natural
vibrancy. The juice is not settled, but sent directly to 400-litre French oak barrels
where spontaneous wild yeast fermentation takes place. No sulphur is added
and the wine typically undergoes partial malolactic fermentation.
The wine is matured on its yeast lees for 7 months after which it is blended to
tank, then returned to barrel for a further 4 months. The wine spends 12 months
in barrel before being blended to tank for a further 3 months for improved
stabilisation before bottling

Awards - Vondeling Chardonnay 2017
James Suckling SA Report 2018 - 93, 
Tim Atkin SA Report 2018 - 91,
Neal Martin SA Report 2018- 91,
South African Wine Index 2018 - Grand Gold,
Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show 2018 - Silver Medal
Awards - Vondeling Chardonnay 2015
John Platter Wine Guide 2016 4 stars
Decanter SA Chardonnay Panel Tasting - 90
Awards - Vondeling Chardonnay 2014
John Platter Wine Guide 2016 4 stars
Awards - Vondeling Chardonnay 2013
John Platter Wine Guide 2015 4 stars 
Winestyle People’s Choice Awards SA 2014 Gold 
Awards - Vondeling Chardonnay 2011
John Platter Wine Guide 2014 4 Stars 
China Wine and Spirit Awards 2014 Double Gold 
Awards - Vondeling Chardonnay 2010
Drinks Business 2013 Silver