Cool growing sites in South Africa are like gold dust, and Iona Wines have one of the finest, a mountain plateau 420m above sea level in the beautiful Elgin Valley. The cool climate means they have a growing season two months longer at Iona than the rest of the Cape, allowing winemaker Andrew Gunn to produce wines with extremely complex flavours. The vineyard is farmed according to organic and biodynamic practices and there is a relaxed air about the place, with flocks of geese keeping pests under control and ferments allowed to start naturally. The Elgin Valley is an up and coming wine region and the excitement about Iona Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay is helping to further embellish its reputation.