JMB Chardonnay

VITICULTURE
The Rietvallei JMB Chardonnay vines were planted in 2013 on a west-facing slope. The clone is 95 and the soil type is calcareous. This vineyard is handled with special care, from pruning right through to harvesting, ensuring a low yield and premium quality fruit.

WINEMAKING
The grapes were picked at 24 °B and after crushing, only the free-run juice was selected. Following settling for three days, the clean juice went to stainless steel tanks for fermentation. At approximately 15°B the must was transferred to second fill 300-litre French oak barrels where fermentation was completed and a further eight months of barrel maturation was done. Malolactic fermentation was not allowed.

WINEMAKER’S COMMENTS
Rietvallei JMB Chardonnay is a full-bodied, complex wine with excellent fruit and wood integration. Lots of work in the vineyard and minimal interference in the cellar allow this wine to express its terroir to the fullest.
An expressive nose that is rich in citrus aromas and well complemented by the spicy, toasted oak notes derived from the barrel fermentation. The palate is rich and creamy and together with a firm acidity makes for a lingering finish.

FOOD PAIRING & SERVING SUGGESTION
Pair with roast chicken, grilled duck or any creamy poultry or fish dishes. Serve chilled (7 – 10°C).

WINE ANALYSIS
Residual Sugar: 3.7g/l
Alcohol: 13.54 %
Acidity: 6.6g/l
pH: 3.44
VA: 0.50 g/l
Total Extract: 29.8 g/l
Total SO2: 138 mg/l
Free SO2: 43 mg/l
Closure: Natural cork