Bouchard Finlayson Sans Barrique Chardonnay 2023

Bouchard Finlayson, established in 1989 by renowned winemaker Peter Finlayson alongside the Bouchard family of Burgundy, has become one of South Africa’s most celebrated boutique wineries. Nestled in the cool-climate Hemel-en-Aarde Valley near Hermanus, the estate is widely acclaimed for its Burgundian-inspired Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The Sans Barrique Chardonnay 2023 is an unoaked expression, designed to capture the purity, freshness, and vibrant fruit character of the variety without the influence of oak ageing. The 2023 vintage is a brilliant example, showcasing elegance, mineral drive, and lively aromatics reflective of its maritime terroir.

The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, cooled by the nearby Atlantic Ocean, provides an extended growing season that preserves acidity while allowing flavours to develop slowly and fully. Soils here are predominantly clay-rich with shale and granite influences, lending structure and mineral definition. Grapes are hand-harvested, whole-bunch pressed, and fermented in stainless steel tanks, ensuring clarity of fruit and a pristine, unoaked style.

Appearance: Pale straw with glints of green, shimmering with clarity and freshness. Light-bodied in appearance, with fine tears forming on the glass.

Aroma: Expressive aromas of green apple, lime zest, and white peach, delicately layered with floral notes of jasmine and subtle hints of wet stone and sea spray that highlight its maritime origin.

Taste: Crisp and vibrant on the palate, offering flavours of citrus zest, green pear, and subtle stone fruit. The unoaked style allows the fruit purity to shine, supported by a saline minerality and razor-sharp acidity that provide both tension and elegance.

Finish: Long, clean, and refreshing, lingering with citrus peel, green apple, and a fine mineral thread that leaves a mouthwatering impression.

Food Pairing: Perfect with freshly shucked oysters, grilled prawns with lemon and herbs, or a light goat’s cheese and rocket salad.