Source: Tim Atkin MW South Africa 2021 Special Report (Tim Atkin -96 pts, Classified 1st Growth Winery)

Lower in alcohol than the 2019 release - the vintage was cooler, explains Emul Ross - this nuanced Chardonnay combines grapes from 22 different blocks on the farm and confirms the wine's status as one of the best examples in the Cape. Focused and saline, with subtle notes of struck match reduction, fine oak and some texture from 10% malolactic. Bravo!

Source: Winemaker,

A tight, mineral wine with classic Hamilton Russell Vineyards length and complexity. Prominent pear and lime fruit aromas and flavours are brought beautifully into focus by a tight line of bright natural acid and a long, dry minerality. An elegant, yet textured and intense wine with a strong personality of both place and vintage.

Soil: Low-vigour, stony, clay-rich, shale-derived soil
Alcohol: 12.90% Acid: 6.90 g/l pH: 3.45 Residual Sugar: 2.20 g/l
Barrel Ageing: 9 Months
Wooding: 100% 228 liter French Oak Barrels Barrel Fermentation: 95% Foudre: 5% Tight Grain: 100%
1st fill: 24% 2nd fill: 23% 3rd fill: 36% 4th fill: 17%
Blonde Toast: 48% Medium Toast: 46% Medium Long Toast: 6%
French Coopers: Francois Freres 100%
Yield: 2.68 tons/ha, 16.9 hl/ha Production: 4293 cases of 12 bottles equivalent
Release date: January 2021
Vegan Friendly