Nine Yards Chardonnay

Crushed and pressed immediately after de-stemming, the juice was barrel-fermented in traditional 228-litre French oak barrels (70% new and 30% second, third and fourth fill) from selected Burgundian cooperages (Damy, Chassin and Rousseau). The barrels were inoculated with a selection of French yeast. A percentage of the wine went through natural fermentation.

The distinct ravine which embodies Stellenbosch Kloof harnesses all the qualities of a well-orientated compass. Varying elevations and aspects allow us to grow a selection of classic varieties to specific sites that optimize this expression through their location. The cooler south- and east-facing aspects, unique in Stellenbosch, hosts the more sensitive and aromatic white-skinned grape varieties. Stellenbosch Kloof enjoys a cooler Mediterranean climate with maritime influences from False Bay, 14km to the south, and a refreshing breeze channelled from the West Coast’s Benguela current 24km to the north-west. These two breezes culminate at the top end of the ravine and bring in early morning mists, especially from False Bay. Consequently, temperatures in our meso-climate can be measured at least 3° Celsius cooler than inland Stellenbosch during ripening periods. This adds a unique characteristic to Jordan wines.

The wine was matured “sur lie” for 10 months, with regular barrel-rolling to accentuate the rich, leesy character.