Crocodile's Lair, Chardonnay 2021

Excellently presented aromas of melon and nectarine underlay a vibrant and pronounced lemon zest and baking spice combination. The texture is rich and voluminous, but balanced by a compelling acidity. Incredible length on the palate. Drink now through 2025.

The Kaaimansgat or Crocodile’s Lair vineyard is hidden away in the Elandskloof Valley behind the village of Villiersdorp, just 80km from Hermanus. It is located 700m above sea level, ripens a month later than other Cape Chardonnays and benefits enormously from cool autumn temperatures.

The elevation at which these vineyards grow, play a significant role in the resulting wine. At 800m above sea level, berries tend to be smaller and skins thicker. Lower juice recoveries can be expected, however, fruit flavours are abundant and the vintage consistency remarkable. Fermentation occur in barrel and initiate spontaneously by indigenous yeast populations. Maintaining temperatures below 25 degrees Celsius is key in the preservation of fruit freshness. Bottling in January 2022 follows a 2 month resting period in tank.

Fermentation occur in barrel and initiate spontaneously by indigenous yeast populations. Maintaining temperatures below 25 degrees Celsius is key in the preservation of fruit freshness.

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