Ataraxia Chardonnay 2006

This wine is the product of two individual and unique vineyard sites situated along the R320, Hemel-en-Aarde. Soils from these sites are derived from well-drained Table Mountain sandstone which overlay intrusions of clay rich shale from the bokkeveld group. Because of the cool climate that exists in this valley, the grapes were required to hang long on the vine in order to reach optimum ripeness. Picked during the early hours of the morning in the first week of March 2006, the grapes were rushed to the celler to ensure that all the exciting fruit flavours were preserved and reflected in this wine. Tasting Notes A minimalist, non-interventionist winemaking approach was adopted. It is 100% barrel fermented and carefully matured in specially selected small French oak barriques sourced exclusively from Burgundian coopers. Fortnightly B?tonnage was employed throughout the 10 month maturation period. The result is a Chardonnay that is New World in provenance but Old Word in stylistic leaning. A chiselled, focused wine that effortlessly manages to be both subtle and intense. It has a core of fiercely expressive grapefruit, white flowers, pear and grilled almond aromas and flavours. The palate is penetrating and enduring yet remains graceful and poised. A bright acidity and soil-derived minerality adds to the classic length and complexity of this stylish, classy chardonnay

Winemaker: Kevin Grant