Iona Chardonnay 2021

Stylish and burgundian with lime and lemon undertones. Bright citrus, oyster shell minerality, and a hint of almonds and biscuit brioche on the finish. Beautiful floral notes and bright fresh acidity persist.

The Chardonnay is produced from 3 north-facing vineyards at 420m above sea level. The vineyards were planted in 2003 and 2009, on predominantly sandstone soils with underlying clay layer. Clones planted on the different sites include CY95, CY 96, 548 and Rustenburg clone. Age of vineyards is between 8-12 years.

The grapes were hand-picked and spent overnight in a cold room, before being whole bunch pressed. No settling enzymes were used, resulting in juice containing more solids. This wine was 100% wild fermented in a selection of 300L French oak barrels. (22% new, the rest 2nd; 3rd and 4th fill.) Lees stirring was done every 3rd week for 4 months to add complexity and texture. The wine remained on the lees for a total of 11 months. 14% of the wine went through malolactic fermentation to add richness and texture. After aging for 11 months in barrel, the wines are racked and blended in stainless steel tank. The wines are fined and stabilised naturally for a period of 3 months before bottling.

11 months in 300L barrels. Then a further 3 months in tank to allow for natural stabilisation.