Iona Estate Chardonnay Single Bottle | Best in Show 97 Points

Wine journalist, Jancis Robinson recently tasted this Chardonnay at a London wine tasting. She said of it:

'Pale greenish straw. Pure and straight and arguably less distinctive than the two Sauvignon Blanc-based wines from Iona. But the same lightly reductive, liquorice scents on the nose as fine white burgundy. Very crisp and fine. Very precise and youthful. Quite long after crystalline structure'

Decanter Magazine - 97 Points | Platinum Medal | Best In Show Award

Country: South Africa Region: Elgin 

Varietal: Chardonnay Vintage: 2022

Colour: White  Style: Dry

Producer: Iona Winery

Description:

Iona is the coolest vineyard in the Cape, 420m above sea-level, high above the picturesque Elgin Valley. An extremely long growing season, harvesting up to 2 months after Stellenbosch, results in diverse, complex flavours and uniquely fresh and elegant wines. Long renowned for their Sauvignon blanc, their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay; recently awarded 5 stars in Platter, are also very fine.

The vineyards are on a mountain plateau 420 metres above sea level, surrounded by the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. In a country where cool sites are precious, these vineyards are like gold dust — the grapes ripening up to two months later than other Cape vineyards and in perfect balance. Iona is South Africa's coolest vineyard site. The vineyards are farmed according to organic and biodynamic practices with a particular focus on ensuring the health of the soils. Natural pest management is provided by the flock of geese that roam the vineyards.

The Chardonnay is produced from 2 north-facing vineyards on the western boundary of the estate, both planted in 2003.

Oak Treatment : 11 months ; Type: French Oak; 

Tasting Note:
The wine shows concentrated marzipan and citrus notes, with underlying hazelnut and lime notes, which adds to layered complexity. The wine is seamless, with flavoursome and long finish.

Food Matches: Lobster or Turbot in a cream sauce. Shellfish and Chicken.