Chardonnay

Pan fried diver scallops with minted grden peas and new potatoes!

The 2022 chardonnay grapes were specially sourced and hand selected by our Cellar Master from 3 sites - a high-altitude slope on the Banhoek side of the Simonsberg Mountain, a cooler Franschhoek vineyard and a block in Stellenbosch’s Polkadraai ward. These locations are selected to combine magnificently to produce a rounded well-balanced wine. Winter 2021 saw cool temperatures and good strong rains allowing the vines a chance to rest. Growing season was dominated by moderate temperatures, moderate rainfall and a slow ripening period.

Berries were hand selected in the cool of the early morning from the three sites. Following whole bunch pressing juice was allowed to rest to clarify before filling 225 litre French oak barrels (17% new barrels, 30% 2nd fill and the balance 3rd and 4th fill for fermentation). This Chardonnay was 100% barrel fermented, using natural yeast with extended lees contact and daily batonnage. As a result, the wine delivers a naturally fresh, creamy and crisp palate. Around 30% of this wine underwent malolactic fermentation.

Holden Manz is a family owned wine producer located in the heart of the beautiful Franschhoek Valley. Established by owners Gerard Holden & Migo Manz in 2010 the estate grows cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot and syrah and sources a selection of white varietals from specialist growers.