DMZ Chardonnay

This Chardonnay pairs well with poultry, seafood, and warm vegetable dishes.

The vines are selected from premium sites in Stellenbosch, situated at elevations between 100 to 300 meters above sea level. Proximity to the ocean provides a beneficial cooling effect, while weathered granite and sandstone soils contribute to the wine's minerality and freshness.

The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels for seven months, enhancing its complexity and mouthfeel.

Each vineyard parcel was fermented separately, utilizing a combination of natural yeast and careful inoculation. Approximately 25% of the grapes were left as whole bunches, and 75% were lightly crushed, with the juice allowed to settle overnight. The wine was aged on its lees in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation commenced naturally in the barrel components but was blocked for those in stainless steel. After seven months, the final wine was blended, stabilized, lightly filtered, and bottled.

A hidden garden vineyard deep in the Stellenbosch Kloof, with sweeping views across False Bay to Cape Town, lies DeMorgenzon - a name derived from Dutch origin for “the morning sun.” From its hilltop manor, this prestigious and graceful family estate is home to Wendy and Hylton Appelbaum. Classical music drifts through the garden vineyards. The earth has music for those who listen. Viticulturally, DeMorgenzon has predominantly south-facing slopes create a cooler microclimate in an otherwise warm region. This allows for the production of finely poised, ethereal Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay, as well as sophisticated, highly aromatic Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. In keeping with their vinous philosophy, the estate is farmed regeneratively, fostering biodiversity and soil vitality to create a balanced, living ecosystem in the vineyards.