Ferrum Chardonnay is made from a single vineyard on Crystallum’s own land at Shaw’s Mountain, just outside the Hemel-en-Aarde region near Hermanus. The name “Ferrum” highlights the iron-rich shale and clay soils of the block. These unique soils naturally restrict vine vigor to yield intensely concentrated grapes with brilliant natural acidity.

The wine was whole-bunch pressed with no enzymes, sulphites added at pressing. After an overnight rough-settling, the juice was sent to barrel, with a spontaneous fermentation and ageing taking place over 10 months in 300 and 500-litre barrels, 20% of which were were new oak.

Tasting Notes: A coiled and energetic vintage that is both zesty and mineral. Green apple, white peach, nectarine and lemongrass lead the aromas with sea spray adding freshness and balance. White flowers emerge over time, as do savoury notes of bay leaf and pistachio and even a touch of ginger. The palate is taut and precise, with a limey freshness and tang complementing subtle meringue notes towards a lingering finish.

Food Pairing: Energetic, and mineral-driven wine from South Africa's Overberg region, offering notes of citrus zest, white peach, and chalky salinity. Its vibrant acidity and elegant texture make it the perfect match for rich seafood, poultry, and creamy vegetarian dishes.  Butter-poached lobster, pan-seared scallops, or crayfish. Grilled or baked fish: Lemon-butter sole, yellowtail, or baked kingklip. Salmon: Perfectly paired with pan-seared Norwegian salmon or smoked trout with asparagus.

Neal Martin says of their wines, 'These are some of South Africa's finest Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.'

ANALYSIS: ALC 13.83% | TA 5.8g/L | pH 3.44 | RS 2.2g/L