variety : Chardonnay [ 100% Chardonnay ]
winemaker : Danielle le Roux
wine of origin : Stellenbosch
analysis : alc : 13.87 % vol rs : 1.9 g/l pH : 3.62 ta : 5.7 g/l
type : White style : Dry body : Full taste : Fruity
pack : Bottle size : 750ml closure : Screwcap
in the vineyard : Among the greatest luxuries that undulation provides in relation to the terroir of
Polkadraai is the variation in mesoclimate and soil type. The range of choice can mean
limitless possibilities in deciding the style of a wine. Such is the case with Asara’s
Chardonnay.
The wine is a reflection of the best of both styles that are shown in better examples of
the variety. Two facing blocks on opposite sides of a dam create the fullness of palate
seen in a fuller, riper style, and the elegance of freshness and minerality that newer
style dictates
A light touch of oak, and contact with the lees contributes further complexity with barely perceptible toasty, nutty notes. Asara’s Vineyard range stays true to vineyard of origin by means of minimal cellar handling.
Average altitude is 100m above the sea, on southwest- and northeast-facing slopes. Sun exposure is continual but indirect, so ripening days are longer, but ripening is slow. The vineyards are planted to Vilafonte soils, acidic, nutrient and well drained, contributing to consistency of grape quality.
in the cellar : The grapes are cooled overnight, sorted, whole-bunch pressed and cooled again. After three days the juice is transferred, 50% to tanks and 50% to barrels. Fermentation temperature is 15°C in tanks and 18°C in barrel. The oak regime includes 10% new French tight grain barrels, for slower release of tannins and gentler integration, the remainder 3rd and 4th fill tight grain barrels. The wine resides on the lees for five months before blending and bottling.