2007 Koelfontein Chardonnay 85 Points

2007 Koelfontein Ceres Chardonnay 85 Points

Tasted last night, not as striking and complex as the 2005 (88+ points), which was very Burgundian, nevertheless it is a good effort with enough substance, could have attained higher rating if the alcohol was not as powerful, 14.3 % alc /vol and slightly disturbing on the aromatics, and the oak could be tone down, 9 months in French oak, which will give a better definition of the fruit concentration.

A mélange of pineapple glace, honey dew melon and caramelised citrus segments.

The palate is fresh with vibrant acidity, leesy complexity and a rather rich and creamy nutty mid palate, good length, this is the only South African Chardonnay certified as Wine of Origin Ceres, a scenic fruit farming valley about 180 km north east of Cape Town on a rather high plateau and sandy soil, spectacular in winter with majestic snowfall, a region also famous for cherry picking between November to January as well as a rainbow trout fly fisherman heaven.

This chardonnay showcase a site and vine harmony, however it’s either due to inexperience winemaking or intentional delay in picking, which is unnecessary and mishandling of oak, it’s definitely a wine to watch as greatness could and can be achieve with more though in the vineyard and less interventionist approach in the cellar.

Drink now until 2014