From time to time virtually perfect climatic conditions can produce an exceptional vintage. One of these rare moments was the year 1999, when the abundant rainfalls in winter were followed by mild and then quite sunny months of ripening in spring. The fruit of this Clover Hill vintage based on pure Chardonnay grapes was so extraordinary that afterwards a small parcel of Chardonnay (Block A) of the growing area near Clover Hill was reserved exclusively to produce the Cuvee Exceptionnelle Blanc de Blancs.

Whenever Clover Hill had the fortune of such conditions since 2000, excellent, sometimes even sensational vintages were created, the latter typically as Cuvee Exceptionelle Blanc des Blancs.

So also in 2013: the extensively wet start to the 2013 winemaking season allowed the vines to grow and flourish. The extended ripening period that followed allowed them to ripe to their full potential while maintaining high intensity and natural acidity.

The Chardonnay, which is harvested from Block A, has since been considered the best of the entire winery. The grapes are gently pressed, fermented and undergo malolactic fermentation. Post fermentation the tanks were held on their lees and were regularly battonaged. After tirage and bottling, the wine is aged on lees for another 5 years prior to the disgorging.

The result: the CLOVER HILL CUVEE EXCEPTIONAL BLANC DE BLANC VINTAGE 2013 was included in the series of Top 10 Sparkling Wines with 95 points in Halliday 2020.

All in all, a fantastic Sparkling Wine in appearance and taste! Wonderful golden color in the glass with fine mousse pearls. An elegant and intense wine, as is typical for wines made using the traditional method, aromas of toast, brioche and honey come through. The whole paired with a very fine, well-balanced acidity and unbelievable length. Delicious pleasure.

First launched in 2018, it can easily be stored until 2025.