DMZ Chardonnay

This Chardonnay pairs well with freshly caught grilled fish, complementing the wine's fresh mineral tones and citrus notes.

The vines used to produce our DMZ Chardonnay are selected from premium sites on DeMorgenzon, at elevations ranging between 100 to 300 meters above sea level. Close proximity to the ocean provides a beneficial cooling effect. Weathered granite and sandstone soils contribute minerality and natural freshness. A moderate start to winter was soon followed late winter rains, helping to replenish soils mosisture levels. Spring was cool and dry, which resulted in low disease pressure and healthy canopies with steady shoot development. After great fruit set, we experienced grapes full of flavour while being perfectly balanced by natural acidity.

Cool, early morning harvested grapes were whole bunch pressed, with the juice going to barrel on the same day. Fermentation occurred spontaneously in primarly old French oak barrels, with 10% new oak. The resulting wines were allowed to mature off their gross lees for 8-9 months, before light racking and commencement of its blending.

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.