Product Description
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McGregor Winery, Calcrete, Chardonnay, 2024, McGregor, South Africa
Producer Profile
The small village of McGregor and the vineyards surrounding it are situated at the foothills of the Riviersonderend Mountains. The village itself is an image of where time has stood still over the years; it is where the people are not bothered by the concept of time and one suddenly forgets the daily apprehensions when entering the wide gravel streets.
The rural area surrounding the village is characterised by a rugged landscape and a variety of fauna and striking flora just waiting to be discovered. In between the inspiring landscape lie the most prized vineyards exposed to the unique climate of the McGregor area.
The vineyards are grown from the slopes of the Riviersonderend mountains to the 3 different river valleys with altitudes varying from 200 to 350 meters above sea-level – each of these terroirs delivering unique flavour profiles and minerality to the wine. The average age of the vineyards are about 15 years old with the average yield between 12 and 15 tons per hectare. McGregor Winery was established in 1948, thus it has been in existence for more than 70 years. We have 20 farms, each with vineyards planted to suit their unique terroir. Making close to 10 million litres of wine per annum, McGregor is a serious player in the broader region. Being the only big scale winery in the McGregor Wine of Origin scheme, it is the only winery able to commercially produce wines for a large market segment.
Wines made from the McGregor area have an unforgettable charm; and this is where the McGregor range drew inspiration from. Each wine is crafted to reflect McGregor’s nature in its flavours.
Viticulture
Calcrete is a wine that embodies the very essence of the Robertson Valley. Calcrete Chardonnay is a true expression of terroir, offering the variety in its most natural form with remarkable minerality and clarity. This unwooded Chardonnay showcases the purest elements of the soil, boasting a mineral-driven profile that sets it apart. The introduction of a wine from such a distinct terroir marks a significant milestone in South Africa’s wine industry.
Calcrete Chardonnay is a wine born from a specific region, where its potential is shaped by the unique terroir. The Robertson Wine Valley is rich in white limestone deposits, varying in intensity across the land. These deposits, believed to be ancient marine remains, are rich in calcium carbonate, which contributes to the mineral quality of the soil. This, in turn, profoundly influences the taste of the grapes and, ultimately, the wine itself.
Much like how Chablis Chardonnay is exclusive to its renowned French region, Calcrete Chardonnay is unique to the Robertson Valley in South Africa. While this area has long been known for its exceptional Chardonnays, the Calcrete style brings this distinction into its own category. Though each Calcrete Chardonnay will have its own nuances, influenced by the winemaker’s touch, they share certain key characteristics that define them as a true expression of the Robertson Valley terroir.
Winemaking
Pressed by hand early in the morning at 22.5 Brix to receive cool grapes, thus minimizing oxidation and ensuring fresh green juice in the cellar. Only free-run juice is used. This specific wine style is produced under very reductive conditions, achieving a fresh, mineral-like, bright white wine.
Tasting Note
On the nose it’s all saline and minerally, with fresh lime notes—clean and unoaked. The palate is refreshingly cool, with more of that zesty lime character, balanced acidity, and a touch of elegant minerality. A delicate weight that coats the palate without feeling heavy, light yet satisfying. Layered with subtle flavours, creating a refreshing and intriguing tasting experience.
Goes well with
The McGregor Calcrete Chardonnay, known for its elegant and subtle profile, pairs well with a range of dishes, from vegetarian tartlets to creamy chicken pasta.
Cellaring
The McGregor Calcrete Chardonnay is an unwooded, mineral-driven white wine designed to be enjoyed young and fresh, ideally consumed within 1 to 3 years of the vintage date.
Features
Varieties: Chardonnay 100%
Colour: White
ABV: 13%
Closure: Natural cork
Style: Still
Case Size: 6 x 75cl
Country: South Africa
Region: McGregor
Vintage: 2025
