Delaire Graff - Terraced Block Reserve Chardonnay, Stellenbosch - 2019 (750ml)

Wine Composition

100% Chardonnay

Winemakers Comments

As complex and diverse as the site from which it originates, the Delaire Graff Terraced Block Reserve Chardonnay is the ultimate expression of terroir. Contoured and sloped as an amphitheatre, the vineyard captures the vast flavour spectrum from varying exposure to the vibrant African sun. An expressive bouquet of smoky floral notes lies within the alluring subtlety of peach and citrus. A spicy minerality remains a refined reminiscence of the sites rich soil, while a crisp acidity contrasts with vivacity.

Awards

Tim Atkin | 94 points 

Technical Analysis

Alcohol Percentage

13.5%

TA

7.1 g/l

pH

3.09

RS

3.0 g/l

Vinyeards / Vintage

Severe weather fluctuations during bud break and flowering, followed by cool windy conditions contributed to less and uneven bunches and smaller berries. White wines have shown good acidity and balanced flavour profiles while reds, despite the challenging season, have shown elegance.

Vinification

Extensive bunch sorting of the grapes formed part of the quality management process. The grapes were whole bunch pressed and barrel fermented for 14 days. Maturation took place in 225 litre 40% new French barrels for 10 months. No batonage or malolactic fermentation took place, in order to retain freshness.

Winemaker

Name: Morne Vrey

Winery

Delaire Graff Estate is situated in Stellenbosch in the heart of South Africa’s most historic and prestigious wine region. Founded by Simon van der Stel in 1679, Simon brought a sound knowledge of viticulture, the art of winemaking – fostering a tradition that has grown from strength to strength through the centuries. In 1982 John Platter, well-known wine writer, bought Delaire, then known as Avontuur. Looking at the magnificent view, he decided to rename the farm Delaire Estate, meaning "From the Sky”. Laurence Graff, Chairman of Graff Diamonds International acquired the estate in 2003 and vowed to transform it into South Africa’s most desirable art, hospitality and wine destination. Today, with two outstanding restaurants, a state-of-the-art winery, exclusive Lodges, a destination Spa and two luxury boutiques, the transformation of this piece of paradise is complete.
Delaire Graff Estate’s unique terroir on the crest of the panoramic Helshoogte Mountain Pass is noted for its high-altitude vineyards, excellent soils and cooling sea breezes. Delaire Graff Estate aims for red wines that are big in structure with soft tannins and elegance, and white wines which capture the freshness of the harvest. With one of the most advanced cellars in the Southern Hemisphere, which became operational in 2008, in just three years the Estate can be comfortably rated as one of the top ten wine producers in South Africa. From the outset wine quality has been superb and Delaire has achieved a stellar rise.