Chardonnay, Vrede, Hemel en Aarde, 2022
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 2022 Chardonnay Vrede undergoes a 5-hour skin contact with around eight months in oak barrels, 30% new. The intense bouquet has dried honey, beeswax and bruised apple scents. The palate is well-balanced, with a very harmonious opening. The Bokkeveld shale soils are articulated extremely well here, gaining weight with a vivid, almond-tinged, pithy finish that lingers in the mouth. Excellent.