Chardonnay Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge
2022
$72.05*
3 case(s) available
Tesselaarsdal, owned and operated by Berene Sauls is named after the small village where she grew up. Tesselaarsdal is situated 24 km North East of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Hermanus in the Overberg region. The village has a unique history, East India Company settler Johannes Tesselaar, left his land to his freed slaves to farm upon his death in 1810. After working at Hamilton Russell vineyards in various roles for 15 years, Anthony Hamilton Russell offered to assist Berene in starting her own...
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The 2022 growing season had a fair amount of rain falling before the grapes started to ripen. This did not have a negative effect as the natural irrigation helped to reduce stress levels on the vines, allowing them to function optimally during the ripening period. The accumulation of cold units in the early winter was fantastic for breaking dormancy. Winter rainfall was lower than in the previous season but still sufficient to replenish soil profiles. The vineyards had even budburst and the initial growth was also even, mainly due to higher than normal maximum and minimum temperatures during September. Grape quality was very favourable, leading to an exceptional vintage.
An elegant wine that reflects roundness and a crisp acidity with subtle defining notes of white pear and lemon toast. Reflective of site, this cool climate medium bodied wine is both silky and fresh with an elegant long finish.
Notes of fresh spice combined with citrus. Subtle oak. Bright and crisp acidity keep the palate super fresh. Berene Sauls' new venture is well worth following. Hamilton Russell winemaker Emul Ross is making the wine here, the grapes sourced from La Vierge's Babylon vineyard on the Ridge. Aged for five months with 77% in amphorae and 23% neutral wood.
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Made at Hamilton Russell by Emul Ross, Berene Sauls' Chardonnay uses fruit from the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. Fermented in clay amphoras and older oak, it's a fresh, tangy, nicely understated style with lots of zip and energy, subtle nutmeg spice and a citrus and lemongrass core.
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Sliced pears, apples, wet stones and pastries on the nose. Medium-bodied, bright and clean, with savory, flinty elements underlining the fresh fruit.
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