Holden Manz Chardonnay

The grapes are hand-picked early in the morning at two climatically cool locations. One of the growing areas is above sea level in Somerset West, while the other is high up on Mount Simonsberg. After pressing the whole grapes, the juice rests for clarification before being transferred to French 225-liter oak barrels for fermentation. Of these barrels, 30% are new, 50% are second-fill, and the remainder has been filled for the third time. This wine is fermented 100% in barrel, utilizing natural yeast with extended lees contact and daily bâtonnage to achieve a naturally fresh, creamy, and vibrant palate. About 30% of this wine undergoes malolactic fermentation.

It presents a bright, lively nose with mineral undertones, showcasing stone fruit, lightly toasted almonds, and a hint of lemon meringue. Refined creaminess and complexity offer appealing fullness and length. Elegant aromas of citrus and white flowers, combined with minerality, a touch of salinity, and layered acidity, lead to a long, balanced finish.