Glenelly, Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2022

Glenelly Estate, nestled in the Simonsberg ward of Stellenbosch, South Africa, was established in 2003 by May de Lencquesaing, former owner of Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande in Bordeaux. Her vision was to create wines that marry the elegance of French tradition with the power of Stellenbosch terroir. The Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2022 exemplifies this philosophy, showcasing a harmonious balance of complexity and refinement.

The 2022 vintage experienced a cool and dry post-harvest period, leading to a later bud break by approximately seven days compared to previous years. Spring brought continued low temperatures, delaying flowering by ten days and presenting challenges due to significant rainfall affecting berry set. Despite these conditions, moderate early summer temperatures allowed for balanced vine growth. January and February saw dry, hot spells with multiple heat spikes; however, ripening remained steady, resulting in smaller yields of high-quality fruit. Grapes were hand-harvested and whole-bunch pressed. The juice underwent natural fermentation in 500-litre French oak barrels and a 5,100-litre foudre, with 20% new oak incorporated. To maintain freshness, only 18% of the wine completed malolactic fermentation. The wine matured on its lees for 11 months before blending and bottling.

Appearance: The wine exhibits a bright, crisp colour with a pale gold hue and subtle green reflections, indicating its freshness and youth. The clarity and brilliance in the glass reflect meticulous winemaking practices.

Aroma: The nose presents a complex bouquet of quince, citrus peel, and lime, intertwined with notes of butterscotch caramel and hints of pear drop. As the wine opens, subtle nuances of toasted almond and vanilla emerge, adding depth and intrigue.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is lush and well-balanced, offering sharp and vibrant citrus flavours complemented by a mineral undertone. The creamy texture, derived from maturation on the lees, is underpinned by subtle hints of toasted almond and vanilla, contributing to the wine's complexity and depth.

Finish: The finish is long and round, with the vibrant citrus and mineral flavours gracefully fading, leaving a lingering impression of freshness and subtle creaminess. The well-integrated acidity ensures a crisp conclusion, inviting another sip.

Food Pairing: This versatile Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements seafood such as lobster and crab, where the wine's acidity balances the richness of the shellfish. Poultry dishes, including roasted chicken or veal, are elevated by the wine's complex flavours and creamy texture. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with a creamy mushroom risotto or a butternut squash ravioli, where the wine's vibrant acidity and mineral notes enhance the dish's richness.

The Glenelly Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2022 stands as a testament to the estate's dedication to producing wines of distinction, offering a sophisticated and memorable tasting experience that reflects the unique terroir of Stellenbosch