Radiant gold in the glass, this 2019 barrel-fermented Chardonnay from Holden Manz offers a flinty, expressive nose layered with lime zest, pink grapefruit, toasted hazelnuts, and ripe fig. Aged for six months on the lees, the wine delivers a luxurious, creamy texture that envelops the palate with depth and finesse. Bright citrus and delicate white blossom unfold in harmony with a saline edge and stony minerality, capturing the essence of coastal South African terroir. The vibrant acidity brings structure and energy, driving a long, elegant finish that lingers with grace. This is a sophisticated, terroir-driven Chardonnay with richness, balance, and aging potential—ideal for collectors and lovers of premium South African white wine.
Chardonnay berries were hand-selected in the cool early morning to preserve freshness and aromatic integrity. After whole-bunch pressing, the juice was allowed to settle naturally before being racked into 225L French oak barrels—40% new, 50% second-fill, and the remainder third-fill—for fermentation. The wine was 100% barrel fermented with wild indigenous yeast, allowing for a slow, expressive fermentation that captured the purity of the fruit and terroir. Extended lees contact and daily bâtonnage added texture, depth, and a creamy mouthfeel while maintaining natural vibrancy. Approximately 25% of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation, bringing added roundness and complexity to this elegant, barrel-fermented South African Chardonnay.
Winemaker: Thierry Haberer
Winemaker: Thierry Haberer
Located in the top, southern-most corner of the Franschhoek Valley, in the embrace of its spectacular mountains, the 22 hectare Holden Manz Wine Estate is situated between the Franschhoek River and Stony Brook at 300 meters above sea level. An exclusive grower of red grapes, the Estate only cultivates its top 16 hectares under vineyards, notably Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot resulting in the production of ultra-premium wines made for the discerning wine connoisseur.
