Kershaw, Deconstructed Kogelberg Ironstone CY548 2020

Deconstructed Kogelberg Ironstone CY548 2020 is a distinguished single-vineyard Chardonnay from the Elgin Valley in South Africa, crafted by the esteemed Kershaw Wines. Founded by Master of Wine Richard Kershaw in 2012, the winery is celebrated for producing clonally selected, site-specific, cool-climate wines that express the unique terroir of the Elgin region. The 'Deconstructed' range delves into the nuances of individual clones and soil types, offering a profound exploration of Chardonnay's versatility.

The 2020 vintage is exclusively made from the Dijon clone CY548, sourced from a vineyard nestled in the Kogelberg Biosphere. This clone, originating from cuttings planted in Corton-Charlemagne in Burgundy, is known for producing wines with concentration and an austere texture. The vineyard's ironstone-rich soils contribute to the wine's robust structure and minerality. The winemaking process involves meticulous handpicking of the grapes, followed by whole-bunch pressing to extract pure juice with minimal phenolic extraction. Fermentation occurs in French oak barrels, with approximately 59.4% being new oak, sourced from artisanal Burgundian coopers. The wine rests in barrel for four months before judicious sulphuring, followed by an additional seven months of maturation before racking and bottling.

Appearance: Pale gold with a brilliant clarity, reflecting its purity and precision. The wine's hue suggests a youthful vibrancy, while the medium intensity indicates a wine of elegance and finesse.

Aroma: The nose is expressive and inviting, offering notes of lemon blossom, white flowers, and petrichor. Subtle hints of struck stone and white stone fruits add complexity, while delicate floral undertones provide an intriguing aromatic profile.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a harmonious balance between fruit and acidity. Flavours of ripe white peach, nectarine, and a touch of citrus zest are complemented by a minerally undertone, likely derived from the ironstone-rich soils. The integration of new French oak imparts subtle notes of vanilla, almond, and spice, adding depth and complexity to the mid-palate. The wine's structure is reinforced by an austere texture and robust mouthfeel, contributing to its complexity and depth.

Finish: The finish is extended and persistent, with the concentrated fruit and lively acidity leaving a lasting impression. The harmonious balance between the ripe fruit flavours, subtle oak influence, and fine minerality ensures a refined and satisfying conclusion.

Food Pairing: This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with rich seafood dishes such as seared scallops or lobster bisque, where the wine's acidity balances the richness of the dish. It also complements creamy poultry dishes like chicken Alfredo or turkey tetrazzini, enhancing the savoury depth. For a vegetarian option, consider a decadent truffle risotto or wild mushroom tagliatelle, as the wine's minerality and freshness harmonize with the earthy umami flavours.

The Deconstructed Kogelberg Ironstone CY548 2020 exemplifies Kershaw Wines' dedication to producing wines that are both expressive and reflective of their terroir, offering wine enthusiasts a nuanced and memorable tasting experience.