De Krans Chardonnay vines are situated on the banks of the Gamka river.  Planted in old clay river bed soils, the vines produce low yields.  Micro irrigation is used during dry stages of the season. Vines are Perold trellised and row direction is east –west, to reduce direct sunlight exposure and thus preserve maximum natural acids and fruit flavours.

Winemaking

Grapes are harvested towards the end of January early in the day to keep the grapes as cool as possible. Grapes are crushed and separated from the skins immediately after which the juice is cleared and cool fermented. No yeast is added and fermentation starts naturally. Once the fermentation is completed, the wine is racked and kept on its fine lees for a further 5 months before bottling.

Winemaker’s comments