2022 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 13.36%
Residual Sugar 2.8 g/L
pH 3.44
Total Acidity 7 g/L
Calories (estimated) 110 kcal / glass
150ml glass110 kcal
750ml bottle550 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Weathered granite, Sandstone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, Oak Barrel
Natural Yeast Yes
Oak Aging 7 months
Lees Aging 7 months
Oak Types French
Production Details Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 25% were left as whole bunch and 75% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation commenced naturally in the barrel components but was blocked for those in stainless steel. After 7 months the final wine was before being stabilized, lightly filtered, and bottled.
Tasting Notes
stone fruit, nectarine, peach, citrus, creamy oak, bright acidity, limey freshness, rich texture, chalky, mineral
2021 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 13.23%
Residual Sugar 2 g/L
pH 3.53
Total Acidity 5.8 g/L
Calories (estimated) 110 kcal / glass
150ml glass110 kcal
750ml bottle550 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Weathered granite, Sandstone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, French Oak Barrel
Natural Yeast Yes
Lees Aging 7 months
Production Details The vines are selected from premium sites in Stellenbosch at elevations ranging between 100 to 300 meters above sea level. Close proximity to the ocean provides a beneficial cooling effect. Weathered granite and sandstone soils contribute minerality and freshness. A cold, wet winter preceding the 2021 growing season resulted in delayed budburst and a similarly delayed harvest. Flavour development peaked early resulting in full-flavoured, ripe styled Chardonnays with healthy levels of natural acidity this year. Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 25% were left as whole bunch and 75% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation commenced naturally in the barrel components but was blocked for those in stainless steel. After 7 months the final wine was before being stabilized, lightly filtered, and bottled.
Tasting Notes
Nose: stone fruit, nectarine, peach, citrus, creamy oak
Palate: bright acidity, limey freshness, rich texture, chalky, mineral length
2020 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 13.81%
Residual Sugar 3.1 g/L
pH 3.38
Total Acidity 6.1 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Granite, Sandstone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, Oak Barrel
Pressing Method Whole Cluster
Natural Yeast Yes
Lees Aging 7 months
Oak Types French
Production Details The 2020 growing season began very early, with homogenous budburst and even shoot growth. Summer was relatively mild, without the heatwaves often experienced in the Cape. The resultant crop retained high levels of natural acidity and abundant concentration of flavour. Particularly exceptional are the white wines of 2020, whilst the reds display early promise thanks to intense colour and tannin concentration. Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 25% were left as whole bunch and 75% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation commenced naturally in the barrel components but was blocked for those in stainless steel. After 7 months the final wine was before being stabilized, lightly filtered, and bottled.
Tasting Notes
Nose: stone fruit, nectarine, peach, citrus, creamy oak
Palate: bright acidity, limey freshness, rich texture, chalky, mineral length
2019 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 13.9%
Residual Sugar 3.1 g/L
pH 3.4
Total Acidity 6.2 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Weathered granite, Sandstone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, Oak Barrel
Pressing Method Whole Cluster
Natural Yeast Yes
Malolactic Fermentation 100%
Lees Aging 7 months
Oak Types French
Production Details The fruit for DMZ Chardonnay is selected from premium trellised vineyards in Stellenbosch at elevations of 100 to 300 meters above sea level, most with the cooling effects of the close proximity to the ocean. Components from weathered granite and sandstone soils in Stellenbosch all contribute to the elegance and minerality, as well as a fresh citrus and yellow apple character. 2019 was a cooler vintage than the previous hot and dry years. Whilst the vineyards benefited from decent winter rainfall there were some latent stress effects from the previous year’s drought conditions. This resulted in some uneven budding and careful harvesting was necessary to achieve a total pick of optimum ripeness. Cool conditions during the early part of the ripening resulted in high acidities and low pH, resulting in wines that are fresh, precise and bright. Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 25% were left as whole bunch and 75% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation was allowed to commence naturally in the barrel fermented portions. After 7 months, the various parcels were blended, before being stabilized, lightly filtered and bottled.
Tasting Notes
sweet vanilla, almonds, tropical fruit, white peach, apricot, grapefruit
Critics Ratings Tim Atkin MW: 90
Tim Atkin MW90
sourceSouth Africa Report 2019
vintage2018
Tim Atkin MW91
sourceSouth Africa Report 2018
vintage2017
Tim Atkin MW89
sourceSouth Africa Report 2017
vintage2016
Neal Martin for Robert Parker's Wine Advocate88
vintage2016
Tim Atkin MW89
sourceSouth Africa Report 2016
vintage2015
Tim Atkin MW90
sourceSouth Africa Report 2015
vintage2014
2018 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 13.74%
Residual Sugar 2.6 g/L
pH 3.49
Total Acidity 5.5 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Granite, Sandstone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, Oak Barrel
Natural Yeast Yes
Oak Types French
Production Details Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 25% were left as whole bunch and 75% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation was allowed to commence naturally in the barrel fermented portions. After 7 months, the various parcels were blended, before being stabilized, lightly filtered and bottled.
Tasting Notes
Nose: vanilla, almonds, tropical fruit
Palate: white peach, apricot, grapefruit, vanilla
2017 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 13.84%
Residual Sugar 2.6 g/L
pH 3.47
Total Acidity 5.7 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Granite, Sandstone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, Oak Barrel
Pressing Method Whole Cluster
Natural Yeast Yes
Oak Types French
Production Details The fruit for DMZ Chardonnay is selected from premium trellised vineyards in Stellenbosch at elevations of 100 to 200 meters above sea level, most with the cooling effects of the close proximity to the ocean. Components from weathered granite and sandstone soils in Stellenbosch all contribute to the elegance and minerality, as well as a fresh citrus and yellow apple character. 2017 was another hot and dry vintage in the Cape. Although the day time temperatures were warm, evening temperatures were much cooler than normal resulting in wines with incredible weight and texture, yet with great acidity and length. The dryness of the season resulted in minimal disease pressure with fruit arriving at the winery in very good condition. Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 25% were left as whole bunch and 75% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation was allowed to commence naturally in the barrel fermented portions. After 8 months, the various parcels were blended, then aged for a further 3 months before being stabilized, lightly filtered and bottled.
Tasting Notes
sweet vanilla, almonds, tropical fruit, white peach, apricot, grapefruit
Critics Ratings Tim Atkin MW: 89
Tim Atkin MW89
Neal Martin88
2016 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 13.6%
Residual Sugar 3.3 g/L
pH 3.35
Total Acidity 5.4 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Weathered granite, Sandstone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, Oak Barrel
Natural Yeast Yes
Lees Aging 8 months
Oak Types French
Production Details The fruit for DMZ Chardonnay is selected from premium trellised vineyards in Stellenbosch at elevations of 100 to 200 meters above sea level, most with the cooling effects of the close proximity to the ocean. Components from weathered granite and sandstone soils in Stellenbosch all contribute to the elegance and minerality, as well as a fresh citrus and yellow apple character. Early season conditions in 2016 were hot and dry causing an early fruit set and rapid ripening. Chardonnay was carefully monitored to ensure that the fruit was not allowed to over ripen and that fruit with good natural acidity was harvested. Fruit quality was clean and healthy facilitating easy processing at the cellar. Fruit was harvested between 22.5º and 23º balling. Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 25% were left as whole bunch and 75% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation was allowed to commence naturally in the barrel fermented portions. After 8 months, the various parcels were blended, then aged for a further 3 months before being stabilized, lightly filtered and bottled.
Tasting Notes
sweet vanilla, almonds, tropical fruit, rich fruit flavour, white peach, apricot, grapefruit
2015 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 13.8%
Residual Sugar 2.3 g/L
pH 3.4
Total Acidity 5.8 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Weathered granite, Sandstone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, Oak Barrel
Natural Yeast Yes
Oak Aging 8 months
Lees Aging 8 months
Oak Types French
Production Details The fruit for DMZ Chardonnay is selected from premium trellised vineyards in the Western Cape at elevations of 100 to 200 meters above sea level, most with the cooling effects of the close proximity to the ocean. Components from weathered granite and sandstone soils in Stellenbosch and Elgin all contribute to the elegance and minerality, as well as a fresh citrus and yellow apple character. Early season conditions in 2015 were hot and dry causing an early fruit set and rapid ripening. Chardonnay was carefully monitored to ensure that the fruit was not allowed to over ripen and that fruit with good natural acidity was harvested. Fruit quality was clean and healthy facilitating easy processing at the cellar. Fruit was harvested between 22.5º and 23º balling. Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 25% were left as whole bunch and 75% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation was allowed to commence naturally in the barrel fermented portions. After 8 months, the various parcels were blended, then aged for a further 3 months before being stabilized, lightly filtered and bottled.
Tasting Notes
Nose: vanilla, almonds, tropical fruit
Palate: oak, rich fruit, white peach, apricot, grapefruit, vanilla
2014 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 14.0%
Residual Sugar 2.4 g/L
pH 3.28
Total Acidity 6.2 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Weathered granite, Sandstone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, Oak Barrel
Natural Yeast Yes
Oak Aging 7 months
Lees Aging 4 months
Oak Types French
Production Details The fruit for DMZ Chardonnay is selected from premium trellised vineyards in the Western Cape at elevations of 100 to 200 meters above sea level, most with the cooling effects of the close proximity to the ocean. Components from weathered granite and sandstone soils in Stellenbosch, Durbanville and Elgin all contribute to the elegance and minerality, as well as a fresh citrus and yellow apple character. 2014 was a cooler than normal year with high levels of rainfall in spring and early summer. Higher than normal crop levels were carefully managed to ensure correct balance. Some selective harvesting and careful bunch sorting in the cellar was necessary. Optimally ripe fruit with no raisins were harvested between 22.5º and 23º balling. Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 25% were left as whole bunch and 75% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. A small percentage of malolactic fermentation was allowed. After 4 months, the various parcels were blended, then aged for a further 3 months before being stabilized, lightly filtered and bottled.
Tasting Notes
Nose: vanilla, almonds, tropical fruit, delicate oak
Palate: rich fruit, white peach, apricot, grapefruit, vanilla
Critics Ratings Tim Atkin MW's South African Report 2015: 90
Tim Atkin MW's South African Report 201590
Stephen Tanzer's Wine Cellar88
2013 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 14.0%
Residual Sugar 2.27 g/L
pH 3.4
Total Acidity 5.7 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Weathered granite, Sandstone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, Oak Barrel
Natural Yeast Yes
Total Aging 7 months
Oak Aging 3 months
Lees Aging 4 months
Oak Types French
Production Details Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 25% were left as whole bunch and 75% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. A small percentage of malolactic fermentation was allowed. After 4 months, the various parcels were blended, then aged for a further 3 months before being stabilized, lightly filtered and bottled.
Tasting Notes
sweet vanilla, almonds, tropical fruit, white peach, apricot, grapefruit
2012 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 13.5%
Residual Sugar 3.2 g/L
pH 3.21
Total Acidity 6.5 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Soil Granite, Sandstone, Limestone
Elevation 100.0 meters
Fermentation Vessels Stainless Steel, Oak Barrel
Natural Yeast Yes
Oak Aging 7 months
Lees Aging 4 months
Oak Types French
Production Details Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, using a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Of the grapes, 45% were left as whole bunch and 55% were lightly crushed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. A small percentage of malolactic fermentation was allowed. After four months, the various parcels were blended, then aged for a further three months before being stabilized, lightly filtered and bottled.
Tasting Notes
bright straw hues, sweet vanilla, almonds, clean tropical fruit, rich and full in the mouth, white peach, apricot, grapefruit, vanilla backing
Critics Ratings Wine Spectator: 89
Wine Spectator89
Stephen Tanzer's Wine Cellar89
2011 Technical Specifications
Alcohol 13.62%
Residual Sugar 3.12 g/L
pH 3.22
Total Acidity 6.2 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Chardonnay
Chardonnay100%
Region Stellenbosch
Vineyard Yield 56 hL/ha
Brix at Harvest 24.0°
Fermentation Vessels Oak Barrel, Stainless Steel Tank
Natural Yeast Yes
Oak Types French
Barrel Size 225 L, 300 L
Production Details The grapes were lightly crushed (juice yield of 56hl/ha – only free-run juice used) and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. A combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation was used in making this wine. The juice with the fluffy lees was then partially fermented in 225 L & 300 L French oak barrels as well as stainless steel tanks. Fermentation took place at 14 ºC and was monitored daily. The Chardonnay matured in a range of 1st to 4th fill 225 L barrels for up to ten months on the lees: thereafter it was racked, stabilised, lightly filtered and bottled.
Tasting Notes
Nose: sweet vanilla, almonds, clean tropical fruit
Palate: rich, full fruit flavours, white peach, apricot, grapefruit, vanilla backing
Critics Ratings Stephen Tanzer's Wine Cellar: 90
Stephen Tanzer's Wine Cellar90
Wine Spectator89
Wine Advocate89
Shop prices
| Reference | Vintage / size | Price / bottle | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wine-SearcherLWIN 1495960 | — | — | wine-searcher.com ↗ |
Producer Information
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Address
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa