Iona Badbay Chardonnay 2023

In 1997, Andrew Gunn purchased the beautiful Geelbeksvlei farm located 420 meters above sea-level, overlooking the Elgin Valley. This apple and pear farm was no longer proving to be profitable, and so with the advantageous location of the farm, Andrew decided to plant vines and pursue winemaking. Its high altitude and close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean results in a cool mesoclimate which has a moderating influence and results in consistent quality. Iona is situated on the last remaining portion of an ancient river valley formed during the post-glacial geomorphic activity. The soils are essentially gravel beds derived from decomposed Table Mountain sandstone, sedimentary deposits and quartzites. The soil provides the opportunity for the vines to penetrate the deep clay underlay providing moisture and eliminating water stress. The Elgin Highlands Range are sourced from grapes grown across the Iona vineyards. These vineyards are between nine to fifteen years old.

Badbea, pronounced “Badbay”, was a clearance village in Scotland where members of the Gunn Clan sought refuge after being displaced in the late 1700s to make way for sheep farming. One descendant, Andrew Gunn, eventually established vineyards in the Cape South Coast of South Africa high above the Atlantic Ocean. This beautiful chardonnay is a testament to enduring optimism, faith and perseverance.