Paul Cluver - Chardonnay, Elgin - 2018 (750ml)

Wine Composition

100% Chardonnay

Winemakers Comments

On the nose this wine shows great citrus aspects and winter melon notes with some light toasted brioche in the back ground. Tangerine fruit and citrus blossom fragrances are apparent, with hints of vanilla pod and almond flakes. These characteristics follow through onto the palate. The fine, fresh acidity is natural, and adds poise and focus to the wine. 

Awards

Tim Atkin | 93 points

Decanter World Wine Awards | 90 points

Technical Analysis

Alcohol Percentage

13.80%

TA

7.1 g/l

pH

3.38

RS

2.9 g/l

Cellar Techniques

This wine was 100% wild fermented in a selection of French oak barrels. (30% new, the rest 2nd; 3rd and 4th fill.) Lees stirring was done and the wine remained on the lees for a total of nine months without any Sulphur addition. Only 25% of the wine went through malolactic fermentation, all without inoculation, further ensuring freshness and acidity.

Winemaker(s)

Name - Andries Burger, Anne van Heerden

Winery

This family-owned, family-run wine business is located in the cool-climate Elgin Valley, approximately 70km south-east of Cape Town. The property has been in ownership of the Cluver Family since 1896. Recognised as pioneers of wine in the area, the focus is on producing elegant wines that are expressive of the terroir.
The wine business forms part of larger holistic farming business called ‘De Rust Estate'. In addition to the vineyards and cellar, there are apple and pear orchards, a Hereford stud and eco-tourism activities, including amphitheatre concerts, on the farm. This 2000+ hectare estate forms part of the UNESCO world heritage site, the Kogelberg Biosphere. Half of the estate has been set aside for conservation into perpetuity.