Stellenrust, Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2016, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Tasting Note: A pucker-worthy, indigenous-yeast fermented chardonnay with some midpalate depth.

Medium-intensity lemon in color, this wine has a nose of vanilla and clove baking spice, green apple and white flower.

On the palate the dry, medium-plus bodied chardonnay expresses more green fruit on the palate than on the nose buttressed by medium-plus acidity and tart, green fruit flavors.

Bottle Note: Situated in Stellenbosch, the heart of South Africa’s wine industry, lies the family cellar of Stellenrust. Here time honored traditions and select wines have led to the family motto: “where excellence meets winemaking.” Our barrel fermented chardonnay is still crafted in the time honored tradition of our forefathers. Grapes are picked at optimum ripeness and the juice allowed to ferment with wild yeast in selected barrels over a 12 month maturing period. The soft tropical fruit bouquet harmonizes perfectly with strong mineral lines. The palate is rich and creamy butterscotch filled with peach and lime acidity.