Crystallum Clay Shales Chardonnay 2024

Crystallum Clay Shales Chardonnay 2024 is a unique wine from a single vineyard located in Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, South Africa, made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes.

The name comes from the clay and slate-rich Bokkeveld soils, which contribute to the wine's distinctive minerality and depth.

Vinification and aging

The grapes were carefully hand-picked and pressed as whole bunches without the use of enzymes, sulfur or commercial yeasts.

After a night of rough settling, the must was transferred to a 2600-liter foudre, where it underwent natural fermentation and aged for 10 months.

Tasting notes

Aroma: A fresh and complex aroma with notes of white pear and banoffee pie, as well as subtle hints of toast and vanilla from the barrel aging.

Taste: A rich texture with notes of lemon, salted macadamia nuts and oatmeal. The wine has flinty minerality and lively acidity that gives a long and persistent finish.

Reviews and awards

James Suckling: 94 points – "Delicately salty, mineral and expressive in an understated way."

Tim Atkin: 96 points – Highlights the wine's balance and complexity.

Food pairing

Perfect for grilled lobster with lemon butter, butternut squash risotto, roasted chicken with herbs and garlic dressing and goat cheese tart.

Technical details

Alcohol content: 13.71%

Acidity: 6.2 g/l

Residual sugar: 2.9 g/l

pH: 3.39

Storage potential: Up to 2035.

Crystallum Clay Shales Chardonnay 2024 is a wine that combines freshness and complexity with a remarkable minerality, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a characterful and age-worthy white wine.