Spier Signature Chardonnay 2024

Spier Wine Farm, established in 1692 in Stellenbosch, South Africa, is one of the country's oldest wineries. The Signature Collection reflects Spier's dedication to over 300 years of winemaking heritage and sustainable practices. The 2024 Chardonnay is crafted from 100% Chardonnay grapes sourced from vineyards in the Western Cape, specifically the Robertson and coastal districts. These vineyards are characterised by diverse terroirs, ranging from dense clay laden with limestone to fragmented shale formations. The vines, aged between 10 and 25 years, thrive under supplementary drip irrigation. Grapes were machine-harvested in the cool early mornings of February and March, gently pressed, and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks for up to two weeks. Maturation on fine lees for over two months added depth, while 3% of the wine was barrel-fermented in new French oak barrels for six months, imparting weight, spice, and complexity.

Appearance: Pale straw with a bright green hue, exuding freshness and vibrancy. The wine’s brilliance and clarity suggest youthful energy, while its subtle viscosity in the glass hints at a well-balanced structure. A delicate golden shimmer at the edges suggests a touch of richness, reflecting the careful blending of stainless steel and oak maturation.

Aroma: Vibrant notes of yellow citrus and green lime gracefully give way to subtle hints of Golden Delicious apple, peach, and white pear, creating a harmonious and inviting bouquet. Delicate floral undertones of orange blossom and a hint of toasted almond add further complexity.

Taste: The palate presents a velvety texture with layered fruit flavours, including grapefruit, lime, and ripe nectarines. A pleasant acidity leads to a delicate, oyster shell-like minerality, offering a refreshing and elegant flavour profile. The touch of oak fermentation adds a whisper of vanilla and spice, enhancing depth without overpowering the crisp fruit character.

Finish: The finish is crisp and clean, with lingering notes of citrus and a subtle creaminess reminiscent of vanilla bean crème brûlée, leaving a satisfying aftertaste. A final note of wet stone and a touch of saline minerality provide finesse and balance, ensuring a refined and lingering impression.

Food Pairing: This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with succulent roasted pork loin accompanied by sweet, caramelised apples, where the wine's acidity balances the richness of the dish. It also complements rich duck served with a tangy orange sauce, enhancing the citrus notes in the wine. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with pan-fried SASSI-friendly fish with lemon butter and parsley, as the wine’s minerality and acidity highlight the delicate flavours of the seafood. A creamy butternut squash risotto or a mild goat’s cheese tart would also pair well, bringing out the wine’s freshness and subtle creaminess.

The Spier Signature Chardonnay 2024 exemplifies Spier's commitment to crafting quality wines that honour their heritage while embracing sustainable practices, offering a delightful and versatile wine suitable for various occasions