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Quoin Rock Chardonnay 2002 Country: South African. Type: White. Fullness: Very Full and Rich. Dominant grape: Chardonnay. Strength: 13.50%. It is in Cape Agulhas that we are finding excellent results with the growing of this variety. A combination of the lower potential soils, and the moderate climate, produce fruit that is an absolute pleasure to make wine from. The vineyards are all trellised with ample space to maintain the canopy in the optimum position to ripen the crop. Generally, the berries are much smaller than the norm, which adds to the complexity and concentration of flavor balance. The fine grain of acidity, typical of this region is maintained all the way up to perfect physiological ripeness. 
The 2002 vintage
The Viticulture: 2002 proved to be a great year for Chardonnay at our Agulhas vineyards. Minimal rain and warm temperatures during the ripening season ensured a healthy crop of optimum ripeness.
The Winemaking: After rigorous sorting, the fruit was crushed and de-stemmed into the press. The free-run juice was handled with minimal influence of oxygen. The press juice was handled with a lot more oxygen incluence, the two components then blended and fermented in 70% new French oak barrels. The wine was aged on the fermentation lees for eleven months with weekly re-suspension of the yeast lees by stirring, as well as weekly topping of the barrels. No sulfur was used during the barrel ageing process.
The Wine: Gaining in fruit intensity, the 2002 is finely balanced with a rich nose of yellow apples and fresh citrus notes. The palate is well-textured with a clean finish.
The Food: Ideally served slightly chilled at around ten ° Celsius, this wine can be served with richer dishes and medium-bodied cheeses.
The Ageing: The Chardonnay is beautifully fresh on release, but will reward with a wonderful integration if left to cellar up to 2009.
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