Springfield Méthode Ancienne Chardonnay 2020

Springfield Méthode Ancienne Chardonnay 2019 embodies a rare winemaking approach reminiscent of ancient Burgundian traditions, distinguished by its methodical use of wild yeast and absence of fining or filtration. This meticulous process highlights the winery’s commitment to producing a wine with deep-rooted authenticity and lasting quality, representative of the Robertson valley in South Africa.

Vintage Overview:

Year: 2019
Varietal: Chardonnay, Clone CY3
Rootstock: 101/14
Age of Vines: 18 years
Yield: 2.5 tons per hectare
Winemaking Details:

Harvest: Night harvesting in March 2019 ensured the grapes remained cool, preserving their natural flavors.
Fermentation: Utilizing native yeast, the fermentation spanned 55 days, followed by a complete malolactic fermentation (MLF) to enhance complexity.
Maturation: The wine was aged for 12 months on its lees in a mix of new and second-fill barrels, contributing to its creamy texture and depth.
Bottling: In keeping with traditional methods, the wine was bottled unfiltered and unfined, stabilizing it naturally and allowing it to evolve in the bottle.
Terroir Influences:

Slope: Gentle, southerly orientation maximizes sunlight exposure, aiding in grape ripening.
Soil: Chalk and calcrete formations provide a unique mineral quality that is expressed in the wine’s flavor profile.
Climate: Characterized by moderate summers with cool nights and cold winters, ideal for developing the acidity and complexity in Chardonnay.
Wind: The cool South Easterly breezes during summer help maintain vine health and balance grape ripening.
Tasting Notes:

The wine displays sophisticated nuances of lime, Cointreau, and oranges, presenting a robust structure and a profile that promises to evolve elegantly. Its substantial body and classical character make it a testament to the timeless techniques of winemaking.
Ageing Potential:

Designed to mature gracefully, this Chardonnay is expected to develop richer flavors and increased complexity over the years, potentially lasting a lifetime under optimal storage conditions.
Springfield’s Méthode Ancienne Chardonnay 2019 is more than just a wine; it is a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the unique expressions of its terroir. It is ideally enjoyed on special occasions or could be cellared as a remarkable example of what traditional methods can yield in the New World.