Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay Walker Bay WO

Walker Bay WO, South Africa

South Africa's most critically acclaimed Chardonnay. The same cool-climate Hemel-en-Aarde site that produces the Pinot Noir yields Chardonnay of exceptional mineral precision and ageing capacity. Whole-bunch pressed, fermented in French barriques (25% new), 11 months on lees. White peach, citrus zest, toasted hazelnut, and a persistent chalky mineral finish. Drinks magnificently at 5–12 years.

Pairing intelligence

• main: The wine's mineral-citrus precision and toasted hazelnut depth is the ideal match for the Cape's prized crayfish; the beurre blanc echoes the wine's lees-derived creaminess.
• main: Cool-climate Chardonnay's mineral freshness cuts through the butter-filled chicken's richness; the wine's hazelnut note complements the herb filling.