Neethlingshof Estate Unwooded Chardonnay, Stellenbosch

Description

The Neethlingshof estate in Stellenbosch takes its name from its 19th century owner, Marthinus Laurentius Neethling, who served as mayor of Stellenbosch and was a member of the Cape Parliament. A member of the Biodiversity & Wine Initiative, acknowledged for its protection of indigenous habitat, the 378 ha winery has set aside 127 ha for conservation. It cultivates both red and white varietals, with the bias marginally in favour of whites. This 100% Chardonnay is sourced from well-established vines planted in 1999 on Tukulu soils. The grapes for this 100% Chardonnay were harvested by hand at the end of February. After crushing of the fruit, the juice was fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks over 14 days between 13° and 15°C.