Wine Lourensford, “The Dome” Chardonnay, 2022

Description

The Dome is a range of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir originally developed for overseas customers, but its immediate success prompted Lawrenceford to introduce it to the local market as well. The Dome is one of those fabulous brands. Hannes Nel, Lawrencefords cellar master, worked closely with the customers to define the style of the wine. When it came to naming the brand, Hannes suggested The Dome, referring to the highest peak in the Helderberg mountain range that overlooks the estate. It made sense, given that some of Lawrencefords best vineyards are planted on the higher slopes of the Helderberg. The style, quality, name and packaging all fit together so well that it immediately evoked a positive reaction from wine merchants and customers, says Koos Jordaan, Lawrencefords general manager.

Lourensford, Chardonnay is a dry white wine made from Chardonnay grapes grown near the Lourens River at an altitude of 200 meters above sea level. 60% of the wine is fermented in 228-liter Burgundy barrels (16% new) and aged in them on the lees for 8 months. 40% of the wine is fermented in metal tanks under temperature control and also aged on the lees for 8 months. After the final blend is made, the wine is harmonized for at least another month before bottling.