Grande Provence Chardonnay

The Grande Provence Chardonnay 2020 from Franschhoek is a masterfully crafted wine that beautifully showcases the depth and versatility of Chardonnay. This wine reflects the careful selection of grapes and meticulous winemaking processes aimed at balancing the natural characteristics of the fruit with the sophisticated nuances of oak.

Vintage:
2020

Variety:
100% Chardonnay, known for its ability to reflect both its terroir and the influence of oak aging with grace and complexity.

Wine of Origin:
Franschhoek, a region renowned for its rich wine heritage and exceptional vineyard conditions, which contribute to the production of premium wines.

Vinification:
The Chardonnay grapes were hand-harvested and whole bunch pressed to preserve their inherent aromas and flavors. Fermentation occurred in stainless steel tanks under carefully controlled conditions, including a cold fermentation at 15°C to enhance the preservation of the Chardonnay’s delicate aromas. Following fermentation, the wine was aged in 500L and 600L French oak barrels for 16 months. This extended period in oak imparts additional complexity and palate weight, enriching the wine without overwhelming the fruit flavors.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The wine opens with immediate citrus aromas, where ripe oranges and mandarins dominate, enriched by underlying notes of butterscotch and caramel—a testament to its oak aging.
Palate: On the palate, this Chardonnay displays a harmonious balance between acidity and roundness. The acidity is fair, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, deep flavors of ripe citrus and oak-derived butterscotch and caramel.
Finish: The finish is dry and lingering, staying on the tongue and leaving a lasting impression of both fruitiness and oaky depth.
Serving Suggestion:
This Chardonnay pairs excellently with a variety of dishes. It complements the richness of poultry and pork beautifully, making it an ideal wine for meals featuring these proteins. Additionally, it can be paired with well-ripened cheeses or grilled fruits, where its fruity and oaky characteristics will enhance the flavors of the food.

Ageing Potential:
This wine can be enjoyed now for its freshness and vibrancy but also has the potential to evolve and develop further complexity over the next 8 to 10 years. Proper cellaring will allow the flavors to integrate more fully and the texture to become even more polished.

Technical Analysis:

Alcohol: 14.14%
pH: 3.83
Total Acidity: 3.89 g/L
Residual Sugar: 2.99 g/L
Overall, the Grande Provence Chardonnay 2020 is a sophisticated and well-structured wine that exemplifies the elegance and complexity of Chardonnay from Franschhoek. It offers both immediate appeal and potential for aging, making it a versatile addition to any wine enthusiast’s collection.