Unoaked Chardonnay

This unoaked Chardonnay pairs excellently with tapas, light seafood dishes, grilled fish, and leafy summer salads. Its crisp acidity and fresh fruit profile also complement vegetarian dishes and serve well as an aperitif.

The grapes were sourced from Jordan Wine Estate's vineyards in the Stellenbosch Kloof ward, situated on south and east-facing slopes at elevations between 250 and 310 meters above sea level. The decomposed granite soils (Hutton and Glenrosa formations) and the cooling maritime influences from False Bay contribute to the development of intense flavor compounds in the grape skins. The vines are 36 years old, and the region's cooler Mediterranean climate, with early morning mists and breezes, allows for a longer ripening period, enhancing the wine's aromatic complexity.

This Chardonnay was not aged in oak barrels, preserving its fresh and fruit-forward character. The four months of lees contact in stainless steel tanks contribute to its subtle creaminess and complexity without imparting any oak flavors.

Harvested between 14th and 28th February 2023 at an average of 21.6°B, the grapes underwent cold settling for two days. Fermentation occurred in stainless steel tanks using selected French yeast strains (EC1118 and D47). Post-fermentation, the wine spent four months "sur lie" in the tank with occasional lees stirring (battonage) to enhance mouthfeel and develop nuanced flavors.

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.