Haute Cabrière Chardonnay Pinot Noir is not just any fresh South African white wine, but the very first Chardonnay Pinot Noir from South Africa. The wine originated in 1994, when an extremely hot summer threatened the planned Cap Classique and founder Achim von Arnim decided to vinify the grapes anyway. What began as a creative solution grew into an iconic blend, now refined by the passion and skill of 3 winemakers over 3 decades.
This wine comes from South Africa, where Haute Cabrière is located in Franschhoek.
Location / Origin: Haute Cabrière is located in Franschhoek, one of South Africa's most famous wine regions and home to the winery behind this pioneering blend.
Winery Style: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the two grapes on which Haute Cabrière builds its identity. In this wine, they come together in a light, fresh, and gastronomic style.
History: The blend was first made in 1994, making it South Africa's first Chardonnay Pinot Noir. Since then, the wine has grown into one of Haute Cabrière's most recognizable wines.
The vinification focuses on freshness, fruit, and a smooth mouthfeel.
Fermentation: The wine is fermented in stainless steel. This keeps the citrus, white peach, and delicate red fruit bright and lively.
Aging / Sur lie: The wine ages for 6 months on its fermentation lees in stainless steel. What is sur lie? Sur lie means that the wine rests on fine yeast cells, which gives it more mouthfeel, freshness, and complexity.
Alcohol percentage: With 12.5% alcohol, the wine remains elegant and drinkable, while aging on the lees provides enough body for a full, soft taste impression.
Vegan: This wine is vegan friendly and therefore broadly applicable for drinks, dinners, and hospitality.
This South African blend combines 2 Burgundian grape varieties in a very unique way.
77% Chardonnay – South Africa: Chardonnay forms the base of the wine and provides fresh citrus, white peach, volume, and a round structure.
23% Pinot Noir – South Africa: Pinot Noir adds delicate red fruit, extra tension, and refinement, giving the wine more character than a classic white Chardonnay.
