Chardonnay De Wetshof Estate Bon Vallon 2023 - Offer
£12.95 per bottle
ABV 13.5%
De Wetshof Bon Vallon Chardonnay 2023 Robertson, South Africa
13.5% alcohol. From rocky soils with quite a bit of calcium carbonate content. No oak here: it’s matured on its lees for 6 months, but it’s remarkably complex and intense. This is a really nicely focused Chardonnay showing a core of bright citrus fruit supported by keen acidity. There’s just a hint of toastiness and spice, with the core of the wine being the bright lemon, lime, mandarin and grapefruit characters. It’s concentrated, taut and mineral. This will age. At £15 in the UK, this is really good value for money.
94/100
Jamie Goode, wineanorak.com
Tasting Notes
Danie de Wet pioneered this noble cultivar in South Africa and this Chardonnay is a fresh and expressive, unwooded version. The nose is delicate with aromas of lemon, honeysuckle blossom and peach. The wine was matured on its lees to produce a vibrant, lemony dry wine with a yeasty and delicate nutty finish. With typical attention to detail, Danie`s wife Lesca has designed classic packaging for this distinctive wine.
Food
Great by the glass it goes well with Caesar Salad or seared salmon or tuna, equally, it will complement grilled or roasted white meats and pan-fried duck.
Region
Located 160km North of Cape Town, the Robertson Valley lies in the folds of the Riviersonderend and Langeberg Mountains where the Breede River meanders towards the Cape`s southern coastline. The chilly southern ocean breezes are funneled up the valley and give cooling respite to the vines throughout the growing season. Quite high concentrations of lime are found in the soil and this makes the area exceptionally fine for white grape varieties.
Producer
The De Wet family were one of the earliest settlers arriving in the Cape in 1694. As pioneers in the wine business they have a natural instinct and huge commitment to viticulture in the Robertson region. Ideally located on the slopes overlooking the Breede River, and under the ownership of Danie de Wet, this estate is at the forefront of quality white wine production in the Cape. The facade of the beautiful cellars is a replica of the historic first Customs House in Cape Town. Inside the building Danie and his team use the most innovative and modern wine-making equipment to craft wines of the highest quality. Internationally renowned and one of South Africa`s most awarded wine estates. They also achieved an exceptional rating in South Africa`s Business Social Compliance Initiative which implements the principle of international labour standards for their workers.
Media
Wine Spectator awarded 91 points in April 2018. Gilbert and Gaillard awarded 93 points in May 2018.
