Sidewood Cassandra Blanc de Blancs 2016

While the rest of the Sidewood Sparkling releases contain varying percentages of Pinot Noir, this is their varietal Chardonnay variation from the estate Mappinga Road blocks in Oakbank, given the royal treatment with part new oak fermentation, 14 months in barrel, part lees stirred, bottle fermented with total lees contact time of five years, and a small dosage only amounting to 3.5gm/litre. All this adds up to a complex aperitif style, more focused on the citrus side of the Chardonnay variety, crisp, refreshing, yet with enough of its traditional method complexities to suggest the oyster shell and cream bun elements that top-class Chardonnay joyously delivers. Delightful summer festive drinking – nay, all year round.