Oak Valley Wines, Beneath the Clouds Chardonnay 2022

Oak Valley Estate, established in 1898 in the cool-climate region of Elgin, South Africa, is celebrated for its dedication to crafting elegant, terroir-driven wines. The Beneath the Clouds Chardonnay 2022 exemplifies this commitment, capturing the essence of its unique origin.

The vineyards are perched high along the foothills of the Groenlandberg Mountain Range, benefiting from the cooling influence of the southeast winds that bring a blanket of cloud cover. This microclimate slows grape ripening, preserving natural acidity and enhancing flavour complexity. The soils, composed of medium-textured gravel with a structured clay layer, provide excellent drainage and support deep root development. In the cellar, a minimalist approach is adopted. Fermentation occurs in older French oak barrels, larger foudres, and a small component in stainless steel tanks to maintain freshness. The wine matures on gross lees for nine months, enhancing texture and balance.

Appearance: The wine displays a pale straw colour with a bright green hue, exuding freshness and vibrancy. Its brilliance and clarity suggest youthful energy, while subtle viscosity in the glass hints at a well-balanced structure.

Aroma: The nose is led by melon and granadilla, followed by unripe pineapple and green apple. Subtle hints of oatmeal and flint add complexity, creating an inviting bouquet.

Taste: The palate is textured and dense from the lees contact in barrel, yet fresh and tart, showcasing its cool-climate origin. Expect abundant yellow peach, tangerines, and orange rind flavours. The well-integrated oak imparts subtle nuances of vanilla and spice, enhancing depth without overpowering the vibrant fruit character.

Finish: The finish is long and salivating, with lingering notes of citrus and a subtle minerality reminiscent of wet stone. A gentle hint of saline adds complexity, leaving a refreshing aftertaste that invites another sip.

Food Pairing: This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements rich fish like salmon or tuna, where the wine's acidity balances the richness of the dish. For a vegetarian option, consider a creamy mushroom risotto; the wine's minerality and citrus notes enhance the earthy flavours. Poultry dishes, such as roasted chicken with lemon and herbs, also harmonise well, highlighting the wine's versatility.

The Oak Valley Beneath the Clouds Chardonnay 2022 exemplifies the estate's dedication to producing wines that authentically express their terroir, offering a sophisticated and memorable tasting experience.