Nine Yards Chardonnay

After de-stemming, the grapes were crushed and pressed. The juice was the transferred to traditional 228-litre French oak barrels and concrete egg, ranging from 80% new barrels and 20% second fill, from selected Burgundian cooperages (Damy, Chassin and Rousseau), where fermentation in barrel.

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 9 months, with regular barrel-rolling to accentuate the rich, leesy character.