Nine Yards Chardonnay

Poached veal with béarnaise sauce or butternut ravioli with mushroom sauce and truffle oil.

The distinct ravine which embodies Stellenbosch Kloof harnesses all the qualities of a well-orientated compass. Varying elevations and aspects allows us to grow a selection of classic varieties to specific sites that optimise 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.

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.

Jordan is a Stellenbosch wine estate run by Gary and Kathy Jordan, with winemaking on the farm dating back more than 300 years. Known for Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling and classic Cape blends, the estate combines varied vineyard slopes with a clear focus on balance, structure and regional expression.