🍷 Ataraxia Fermented On Skins Chardonnay 2023: Orange Wine Excellence
The Ataraxia Fermented On Skins Chardonnay 2023 offers a distinct and intriguing taste experience. Winemaker Kevin Grant crafted this limited-release wine from Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge fruit. Grapes were destalked and crushed upon arrival at the cellar. The must underwent a 20-day fermentation period on its skins, using a process of spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts. This extended contact delivers an unusual, waxy texture and a subtle tannic grip to the palate.
This Chardonnay presents notes of earth, black tea, and orange peel. A lovely minerality and savory tang support the wine’s vibrant acidity. It is a brilliant example of a vin de terroir, showcasing the unique, stony, clay-rich Bokkeveld Shale soils of the area.
Wine critics have recognized this distinctive style. Tim Atkin MW awarded the 2023 vintage a high score of 92 points. This wine is considered a top-rated South African white wine. It truly represents an ancient winemaking technique brought back to life in the New World.