HAUTE CABRIÈRE’S love of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir is no secret. In fact, Haute Cabrière has dedicated itself to exploring these Burgundian grapes through artful blends and single-varietal wines ever since the Von Arnim family bought the farm in 1982.
The 2020 Chardonnay Unwooded is an exciting new addition to the Haute Cabrière range of lifestyle wines. It is also an expression of the Von Arnims’ passion for Chardonnay. “The Chardonnay Unwooded is the long-awaited sibling to the fruity Pinot Noir Unwooded and Chardonnay Pinot Noir blend. This wine perfectly complements its older siblings and brings the exploration of these unwooded wines full circle. With its fresh, crisp fruit profile and balanced acidity, it is a great first act and flows perfectly into a glass of the Chardonnay Pinot Noir, followed by the Pinot Noir Unwooded,” says Takuan von Arnim, cellar master.
“The journey began two years ago,” expands winemaker Tim Hoek. “We took months to find the perfect block with a terroir that lent itself to a 100% Chardonnay and little manipulation of the grapes for a fruit-forward profile. The block chosen was north facing, planted in 2008, and is known for its tropical fruit profile – it was everything we were searching for, as is the end result.”
Harvested by hand and gently destemmed, the grapes were handled with care to showcase the vibrant and full flavours. For added complexity, and true to Haute Cabrière’s “break the mould” approach to vinification, two yeast types were used during fermentation to create unique characteristics on the nose and palate. All of this makes for a beautifully complex unwooded Chardonnay that can be enjoyed now, or aged for three to five years.
This fresh and fruity single-varietal wine pairs well with drinks after work, picnics and braais with friends, and afternoons of gardening. As for food pairings, think shellfish on the braai with a light and fresh marinade.
For those who sit in the “ABC” camp (Anything, but Chardonnay), Haute Cabrière challenges you to try the Chardonnay Unwooded 2020.
“We will continue to explore techniques, vineyard blocks, styles, and blends until we live in a world where all wine lovers love Chardonnay as much as we do, so prepare to be a convert,” says Von Arnim.
Haute Cabrière Chardonnay Unwooded is R80 per bottle, available from the cellar door, online shop, and leading retailers. For more information, click here.