Kleine Zalze 2023 Vineyard Selection Chardonnay

Kleine Zalze

Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, just two miles from Stellenbosch, lies the award-winning Kleine Zalze Winery. The estate's winemaking heritage dates back to 1695, but in 1996, under Kobus Basson's and his family's stewardship, Kleine Zalze transformed into a modern beacon of South African viticulture.

The estate's vineyards benefit from various slopes, soils, and aspects, all tempered by the cool Atlantic breezes from the nearby coast, just 15 kilometres away. This unique location provides optimal growing conditions, allowing the cultivation of grapes with delicate flavours and exceptional quality.

Viticulturist Henning Retief employs sustainable practices, focusing on innovative canopy management. He selects grape varieties and clones suited to the specific soils and slopes and implements yield-reduction techniques to produce fruit-driven, concentrated wines with outstanding character and maturation potential.

In 2020, Kleine Zalze was honoured as the Top Performing Winery of the Year by Platter's South African Wine Guide, a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence. Further accolades include four Double Golds and the Best Achiever award at the Veritas Awards 2022.

The estate's philosophy is straightforward: success begins in the vineyards. This belief is evident in every bottle, reflecting the team's dedication and passion. As Cellarmaster RJ Botha aptly states, "There is a clear and consistent vision at Kleine Zalze, a golden thread running through all our wines."

Kleine Zalze's story concerns passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Each bottle encapsulates the essence of its place and the dedication of the individuals who craft it, inviting wine enthusiasts to partake in a legacy centuries in the making.