Boschendal, 'Appellation Series Elgin Chardonnay', 2022, Elgin (WO)

'One-Liner'
Cool-climate Cape Chardonnay with real finesse – citrus, white peach and crisp apple layered with fine oak, creamy lees texture and a long mineral finish.

Tasting Note
Vibrant pale gold with a glimmer of green, opening with grapefruit, lemon and Golden Delicious apple alongside white peach and delicate floral notes. The palate is generous yet beautifully controlled, with bright citrus acidity cutting through a richer core of orchard fruit and finely judged oak. Eleven months on the lees brings a creamy, gently rounded texture, while hints of vanilla, toasted spice and white truffle add complexity without overwhelming the fruit. A subtle saline minerality keeps everything precise and energetic. Long and elegant on the finish, with citrus, apple, fine oak and a savoury mineral note lingering behind.

Country: South Africa
Region: Western Cape
Sub-Region: Elgin WO
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
ABV: 13.5%
Friendly: Sustainable

Awards & Critics' Scores
Tim Atkin, South Africa Special Report 2024 – 93/100
Wine Enthusiast – 91/100
IWSC 2024 – Silver Medal

The Story
Boschendal’s Appellation Series is designed to show the character of individual South African wine regions, and this Chardonnay comes from the markedly cool conditions of Elgin. The grapes are whole-bunch pressed before fermentation begins, with part of the ferment occurring naturally before the juice is transferred to selected French oak barrels. Partial malolactic fermentation is followed by eleven months on the primary lees, with monthly stirring to build texture. Only the best barrels make the final blend, with 20% first-fill oak, 34% second-fill and the remainder older barrels, giving enough oak influence for complexity while preserving Elgin’s citrus freshness and distinctive mineral character.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Sea bass with artichokes
- Vegetarian: Manchego and quince tart
- Vegan: Roast cauliflower steaks with almond, lemon and parsley dressing