JordanBarrel-FermentedChardonnay2024Stellenbosch

“Glossy and rich, with ripe stone fruit, citrus and honeyed notes. Fresh acidity balances the weight. Layered and textured, with a moreish finishâ€? Decanter April: 91 Points

The juice was barrel-fermented in a selection of 228 litre Burgundy-shaped French oak barrels (50% new, 30% second-fill and 20% third fill Nevers and Burgundian oak barrels from selected French cooperages). The wine was matured sur lie in the barrel for 9 months with occasional rolling of the barrels to accentuate the leesy character. 12% tank-fermented Chardonnay was blended with the barrel-fermented wine to ensure a good balance of citrus flavours. Both the tank and barrel-fermented Chardonnay underwent malolactic fermentation.

Gary and Kathy Jordan have been making world-class wines since 1993 on a farm with a history going back over 300 years. He’s a geologist, she’s an economist â€?together this husband and wife team is a phenomenon. Gary’s parents, Ted and Sheelagh, bought the 146 hectare Stellenbosch property in 1982, and embarked on an extensive replanting programme, specializing in classic varieties suited to the different soils and slopes.

From the Jordan hillside vineyards one has spectacular panoramic views of Table Mountain, False Bay and Stellenbosch. Gary and Kathy worked internationally for two years, refining their high-energy instincts with practical experience. They returned home to build a cellar in 1992.

The following year, the vines were judged ready for making wines that would carry the Jordan name. From that first year it was obvious that a new star had been added to the winemaking firmament. Continuing success has enlarged the team, with the focus on producing fiercely individual wines that combine the fruity accessibility of the New World with the Classic Elegance.

Drink now

Chicken, Marinated Dishes

Dry

Medium Bodied

Golden Yellow

Chardonnay

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Jordan Estate

2024

Contains Sulphites