Chardonnay, Vrede, Hemel en Aarde, 2021
A north-east facing slope in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, the soils are predominantly stony, clay-rich Bokkeveld shale bringing texture and complexity. Fine and fluid with freshly cut stone fruits, citrus oils and lemongrass, to a fresh sappy finish. There is a lovely weight to this Chardonnay. It was raised in French barrique, 30% new. As of 2022, Vrede is up to 1.4ha from 0.8ha.
critic reviews
The 2021 Chardonnay Vrede, from vines planted in 2006 that are sensitive to temperature and drought, was cropped at just 1.6 tons/hectare. This is basket pressed and matured in 25% new oak with full malo. It has an attractive nose with scents of Golden Delicious, pear and light lemon verbena scents. The palate is well balanced with good depth, quite a concentrated Chardonnay with nice acidity. Buoyed by ample freshness, this is a superb and delicious wine that will be difficult to resist in its youth. Superb.