Chardonnay, Vrede, Hemel en Aarde, 2021

A 0.8Ha plot. Planted 2006 Vrede never disappoints. Low yielding with notes of white pear citrus, marzipan and stones with a bit of struck match and ginger spice (native ferment). 12.88% of alcohol shows that a vineyard can give texture and viscosity without feeling lean. Barrel fermented and 8 months in oak, 30% new and the rest up to 2016. 10-15% whole cluster pressed and the rest destemmed but they will increase this over time. 100% MLF in 2020 helps to build the roundness with a balance of low alcohol and freshness. Harvested in the second half of February, usually 2-3 weeks later than the Pinot.