2023 Craven Bluegum Grove Vineyard Chardonnay

The Stellenbosch wine region in South Africa's Western Cape is renowned for its diverse terroir, featuring ancient granite and shale soils that provide a strong foundation for viticulture. Its Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cooling breezes from False Bay, helps moderate temperatures and preserve grape acidity. This unique combination of soils and climate enables Stellenbosch to produce high-quality wines known for their depth and elegance. Dedicated to the region, the Cravens focus exclusively on single-vineyard wines from Stellenbosch, working closely with growers to craft wines that reflect their unique origins and sense of place.
Chardonnay, long enjoyed by the Cravens, inspired a decision to craft their own version, with fruit sourced from the Polkadraai Hills, known for adding salinity and freshness to white wines. In the cellar, the fruit was whole-bunch pressed, settled overnight, and transferred to neutral 500L French oak barrels for fermentation and malolactic fermentation. After seven months of aging, the wine was racked and bottled.
Alc. 11.9%

Craven is one of the most interesting wine projects in South Africa - Jamie Goode, Wine Anorak, April 2017

Other Reviews....
Matured for seven months in older 500-litre barrels. Lemon and blossom on the nose. The palate is harmonious with good fruit concentration and bright acidity before a savoury finish. Hardly showy but not quite as stripped down as some vintages – just the right amount of creamy texture.
93 Points
Christian Eedes - Winemag