De Wetshof Estate Bon Vallon "Sur Lie" Chardonnay 2022, Robertson

If you're a determined ABC (anything but Chardonnay), you're not trying the right bottles. Put aside your preconceptions.

Located 160km North of Cape Town, the Robertson Valley lies in the folds of the Riviersonderend and Langeberg Mountains where the Breede River meanders towards the Cape`s southern coastline.

The chilly southern ocean breezes are funneled up the valley and give cooling respite to the vines throughout the growing season. Quite high concentrations of lime are found in the soil and this makes the area exceptionally fine for white grape varieties, such as Chardonnay.

The De Wet family were one of the earliest settlers arriving in the Cape in 1694. As pioneers in the wine business they have a natural instinct and huge commitment to viticulture in the Robertson region.

Ideally located on the slopes overlooking the Breede River, and under the ownership of Danie de Wet, this estate is at the forefront of quality white wine production in the Cape.

The facade of the beautiful cellars is a replica of the historic first Customs House in Cape Town. Inside the building Danie and his team use the most innovative and modern wine-making equipment to craft wines of the highest quality. De Wetshof is internationally renowned and one of South Africa`s most awarded wine estates.

Danie de Wet pioneered this noble cultivar in South Africa and this Chardonnay white wine is a fresh and expressive, unwooded version.

The nose is delicate with aromas of lemon, honeysuckle blossom and peach. The wine was matured on its lees (hence Sur Lie) to produce a vibrant, lemony dry wine with a yeasty and delicate nutty finish.

Awarded in the top 15 in the Chardonnay du Monde 2019 out of 696 Chardonnays tasted. Double Gold Medal in the 2019 Veritas Awards.