2020 Chardonnay, Baleia Wines

Established in 2009 by the Joubert family, their winemaking style is inspired by the Mediterranean climate. Their ethos is to create wines that reflect the unique terroir and elements of their remarkable location. In fact, Baleia is the only winery on the Lower Duiwenhoks River in Vermaaklikheid. `Baleia` is Portuguese for `whale` and the striking labels are inspired by St. Sebastien Bay, the ‘Whale Nursery of South Africa’.

The true essence of the Baleia property lies in the soil, which consists largely of pure, solid limestone with a very high mineral content. This aspect, along with their close proximity to the sea, creates a particular mouthfeel to the wines, reminiscent of chalky minerality and maritime salinity. At Baleia, the winemaking cycle begins with consistent attention to detail in the vineyards. They believe healthy soil promotes healthy roots and vine wellbeing, which produce beautifully balanced fruit. This soil is also home to the very rare Canca fynbos, which is endemic to the South Coast and one of very few fynbos species to flourish in the alkaline environment of limestone outcrops.

Their philosophy is all about portraying the characteristic aspect of the site; making wines that are true to their terroir and can be identified by their very specific mineral and maritime character in a blind tasting. These inherent qualities are allowed to take centre stage in the wines through minimal intervention in the cellar, to ensure that they do not cloud the natural beauty. In their own words, `when you savour a glass of Baleia, you’ll known the circle is complete.`