Bouchard Finlayson, Sans Barrique Chardonnay 2023

Bouchard Finlayson, a renowned boutique winery in South Africa’s Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, is celebrated for its exceptional cool-climate wines. The Sauvignon Blanc 2024 exemplifies the estate’s commitment to quality and the unique terroir of the region.

This vintage is a blend of 87% Sauvignon Blanc and 13% Sémillon, sourced from mature vineyards planted on heavy shale clay soils. The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, just five kilometres away, provides a cool maritime climate ideal for slow ripening, resulting in a wine with vibrant acidity and complex flavours. The 2024 growing season experienced significant rainfall, including a historic 196mm event in September, leading to a smaller, concentrated crop. Harvest commenced in mid-February, with careful selection ensuring optimal ripeness.

Appearance: Pale straw with a subtle green hue, reflecting its youth and freshness. The clarity is striking, with a slight shimmer indicating its crisp acidity and vibrant nature. The viscosity is moderate, suggesting a well-balanced body that maintains both elegance and structure.

Aroma: An explosive bouquet of fig and gooseberry, complemented by hints of thyme and tropical undertones. Bright citrus notes of lime zest and lemon blossom emerge alongside delicate floral hints of elderflower. As the wine opens, subtle mineral nuances reminiscent of wet river stones add depth and refinement.

Taste: The palate offers a fleshy texture with flavours of green apple and sliced grapefruit, balanced by refreshing acidity. The crisp, zesty character is complemented by softer tropical notes of passion fruit and guava. The inclusion of Sémillon adds depth and a subtle richness, contributing a rounded mouthfeel that enhances the wine’s complexity. A hint of saline minerality lingers, reinforcing the cool-climate elegance of the wine.

Finish: The finish is long and vibrant, with satisfying fruit weight and a lemony concentration that lingers effortlessly. The refreshing acidity keeps the wine lively, while delicate herbal and flinty undertones add sophistication. A lingering note of lime pith and a touch of green melon provide a lasting impression of freshness and refinement.

Food Pairing: This versatile wine pairs well with citrus-cured white fish, simple garden salads, or grilled asparagus topped with chopped parsley. Its refreshing profile also complements dishes like goat cheese tartines or seafood pasta. Lightly spiced Asian dishes, such as Thai green curry or lemongrass-infused prawns, further highlight the wine’s bright acidity and fruit-forward character.

The Bouchard Finlayson Sauvignon Blanc 2024 showcases the harmonious interplay between meticulous viticulture and the distinctive cool-climate terroir, offering a vibrant and memorable tasting experience.