Cape Mentelle Chardonnay 2020

Again, a blend of fruit sourced from the Crossroads and Chapman vineyards, the grapes are whole bunch pressed before fermentation in barrel. Maturation is in oak for ten months before transfer to tank for a further eight with lees stirring every second month. Green/gold in colour, the nose shows complexity – we have nuts, minerals, oatmeal and stonefruit. There is excellent oak integration underway and a taut structure. Balance and intensity is key, with good bright acidity running the length leading to a finish that persists impressively. The palate offers notes of stonefruit, a touch of honeycomb and apricot kernels. Overall, a richly flavoured Chardonnay that will offer pleasure over the next eight to twelve years.