Creation Wines is a highly acclaimed wine estate located on the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge in the Walker Bay wine region of South Africa, near Hermanus. Established in 2002 by husband-and-wife team Jean-Claude (JC) and Carolyn Martin, the estate was developed from virgin land, with the first grapes harvested in 2006.

Born into pioneering winemaking families from Switzerland and South Africa respectively, JC and Carolyn Martin brought extensive experience and a shared vision to Creation. Their philosophy centers on “enhancing the beauty of nature,” employing sustainable and environmentally responsible practices in both the vineyards and the cellar. Creation was notably one of the first wineries in South Africa to plant certified virus-free vines post-1994, a crucial factor for long-term vineyard health.

The estate’s unique terroir, characterized by 450-million-year-old clay loam soils, a cool maritime climate influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, and a high elevation, provides ideal conditions for producing elegant and balanced wines. Creation is particularly renowned for its world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, though they also cultivate other varietals. Beyond winemaking, Creation is a popular tourism destination, offering a state-of-the-art tasting room, a highly regarded restaurant with food and wine pairings, and a commitment to community and environmental initiatives, including being a WWF Conservation Champion.

Lately, Creation has been heralded as Africa’s best vineyard, and #3 in the world. A visit to the winery is a marvel for the senses.

Terroir
Wine of Origin: Cape South Coast
Soil: Seams of quartz on clay
Elevation: 264 m
Aspect: Southern slope

Vintage
Harvest Date: End February 2023
Rainfall: 820 mm
Ripening: Long ripening period
Avg Temp: 22° C

Vinification
100% Chardonnay. Hand-harvested, fermented in 30% new oak and 70% second-fill French oak barrels. Left on the lees for a further 10 months while undergoing malolactic fermentation.

Analysis
Alcohol: 13.5 vol%
Total Acid: 7.1 g/l
pH: 3.2
Residual Sugar: 1.6 g/l

ABC (Absolutely Brilliant Chardonnay)
Single-vineyard wine. Vibrant grapefruit and fragrant apple with a hint of honey and a sprinkling of cinnamon.

Robert Parker Wine Advocate – 93+ points