Glen Carlou Quartz Stone Chardonnay 2022

Region and Vineyards

Glen Carlou is located in the Simonsberg-Paarl region of South Africa’s Western Cape, known for its varied slopes and soils, which are meticulously nurtured for optimal expression. The Quartz Stone vineyard, the source of this single-vineyard Chardonnay, is situated on the northern foothills of Simonsberg, where granite-based soils intermixed with quartz fragments define the terroir. This unique soil composition, along with the 35-year-old, low-yielding vines, contributes intense and concentrated flavors to the wine.

Since 2016, Glen Carlou has been under South African family ownership, with a focus on sustainable viticulture and replanting initiatives. Drought-resistant rootstocks and modern clones have been introduced to enhance the estate’s resilience, reflecting Glen Carlou’s commitment to preserving and amplifying each vineyard’s unique potential.

Winemaking

The Quartz Stone Chardonnay 2022 is crafted with precision, beginning with hand-harvesting in the cool morning hours to maintain the fruit’s freshness and complexity. After hand-sorting, the whole clusters are gently pressed, and only the first 55% of free-run juice is used. The juice is then naturally fermented, with 90% aged in new French oak barriques and 10% in a Quartz Stone Nomblot egg-shaped tank. This careful approach preserves both purity and texture, enhancing the wine’s layered profile.

The wine rests on gross lees for 12 months, adding depth and a subtle creaminess. Individual barrels are meticulously selected for the final blend, which is bottled and sealed with a premium natural cork for optimal quality and preservation.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale gold with a slight greenish hue.
• Aroma: Complex aromas of citrus, white peach, fragrant spices, and buttered toast.
• Palate: Lively and layered, with notes of lime, lemon, green apple, and stone fruit. A discreet minerality from the quartz soil lends further dimension, leading to a long and refined finish.

Did you know?

The Quartz Stone vineyard is named for its quartz-rich soil, which imparts a distinctive minerality to the wine, giving it an extra layer of complexity and elegance. This single-vineyard Chardonnay showcases Glen Carlou’s attention to terroir and is sealed with a premium-grade natural cork to ensure zero taint and preserve the wine’s quality.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Pan-seared scallops with lemon butter: The citrus and mineral notes of the wine complement the delicate flavors of scallops.
• Roast chicken with garlic and herbs: The wine’s layered complexity and hint of oak enrich the savory flavors of roasted chicken.
• Lobster risotto: The creamy texture of the wine enhances the richness of lobster and the smooth, savory flavors of risotto.
• Aged Gouda: The wine’s acidity and minerality balance the nutty, caramel notes of aged Gouda.

History of Glen Carlou

Founded in 1985, Glen Carlou quickly gained a reputation as a producer of high-quality wines through a combination of traditional viticulture and modern innovations. The estate is situated in the heart of the Paarl region, which enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

This region is ideal for viticulture, with its diverse soils including decomposed granite, clay, and alluvial deposits, providing excellent drainage and optimal growing conditions for the vines.

Glen Carlou's vineyards are meticulously managed to ensure high-quality yields. The estate emphasizes sustainable viticulture, using environmentally friendly techniques to protect biodiversity and maintain soil health. Harvesting is primarily done by hand, allowing for rigorous selection of the grape clusters.

Wine Portfolio

Glen Carlou offers a diverse range of wines, reflecting the richness and diversity of its terroir. Here are some of the estate's flagship wines:

• Glen Carlou Chardonnay: An elegant white wine with notes of tropical fruits, vanilla, and a buttery finish.
• Glen Carlou Cabernet Sauvignon: A robust red wine with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and spices, with well-structured tannins.
• Glen Carlou Pinotage: A distinctive wine with flavors of dark fruits, chocolate, and a hint of smokiness.
• Glen Carlou The Collection: A series of premium wines highlighting specific grape varieties and unique winemaking techniques.

Glen Carlou is not only recognized for its award-winning wines but also for its commitment to art and culture. The estate hosts a contemporary art gallery, showcasing works by local and international artists, thus creating a harmonious link between wine and art.