2022 De Grendel Chardonnay Op Die Berg

"De Grendel has been among the most vocal pioneers of the Ceres Plateau and this brilliant Chardonnay from Pieter Graaff's vineyard at 960 metres fully justifies its enthusiasm. Fermented with full malolactic to soften the acidity, it's wonderfully focused, nuanced and layered, with wet stone and lemon butter flavours and a mineral core. 2023-29"
95 Points Tim Atkin 2023 SA Review

De Grendel is one of the oldest farms in Cape Town, sprawling over nearly 330 hectares on Tygerberg Hill. It is unique amongst other vineyards in the Cape as it sits in ‘the holy wine triumvirate’ of sea views, cool ocean breezes and misty nights. In addition, they purchase special parcels of grapes from the cooler climate regions of Elim and the Ceres Plateau, for their Op Die Berg range.

The legendary Charles Hopkins has been the Winemaker at De Grendel since its maiden vintage in 2003; only stepping aside this year (and remaining on as Cellarmaster) to promote Morgan Steyn to the Winemaker position. Charles is a longstanding member of the prestigious Cape Winemakers Guild, while Morgan Steyn is a current member of the CWG Protegé program.

The farm is a member of the WWF’s Biodiversity and Wine Initiative. It is proudly carbon negative, and uses solar panels and water-wise techniques to increase efficiency and limit waste, whilst never sacrificing on quality. In this sense certainly, De Grendel is a pioneer, setting an example for other farms to follow.