Brick Road Chardonnay

At Middelvlei, 21ha are devoted to Chardonnay, and grapes from only 5ha were used to make the 2007 Chardonnay. The vines, grafted onto Richter 99 rootstock, were planted in 1994. The vineyards face west and are situated at an altitude of 160m above sea level.

The conditions for the healthy growth and ripening of the grapes during the growing season (September – December) were ideal. The rainfall during the winter before the vintage, as well as the growing season, was average. The annual rainfall was 660mm for the 2007/2008 season compared to the long-term annual rainfall of 700mm.

The grapes were harvested on 11 February 2008 at an average sugar level of 23° Balling. They were handpicked and placed in small baskets to prevent bruising.

In the cellar the juice received 30 minutes skin contact. 100% was tank fermented.

Winemaker’s comments
The nose and palate show hints of tropical fruit and a generous touch of spice. Luscious peach and guava flavours add to the fruitiness of this elegant wine.

Analysis
Alcohol: 14.02 %
Acidity: 5,1 g/l
Residual sugar: 1.6 g/l
pH: 3,71

Date bottled: 25 August 2008

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