Restless River Chardonnay
A vibrant White wine with elegant citrus, wet stone notes and a supple texture
Restless River Chardonnay Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley WO, Hemel-en-Aarde, South Africa is a dry White still wine crafted from 100% Chardonnay grapes. Spontaneously fermented and matured in French oak barrels, it offers elegant aromas of wet stone, citrus peel, and lemon tart. The palate is beautifully balanced with vibrant acidity and a supple texture from barrel ferment, revealing a core of well-defined fruit that leads to a long, intense finish. This versatile wine is vegan and vegetarian friendly, pairing wonderfully with poultry, rich fish, or mature cheeses.
75.0CL , 13.0% ABV , Vintage: 2023
Vinification
The Chardonnay grapes were harvested by hand and gently whole bunch pressed using an old Vaslin basket press. The juice was managed oxidatively and left to settle with no additives or cooling. Spontaneous fermentation took place in 500L French oak barrels and the wine was left to mature for 11 months in larger Burgundy barrels (5% new). The three vineyards were vinified separately, with attention given to pairing coopers and specific barrels for each vineyard. The wine was left to settle in stainless steel tanks for three months prior to bottling, followed by nine months ageing in bottle prior to release.
Flavour profile
This elegant Chardonnay offers vibrant aromas of wet stone, citrus peel, and lemon tart. The palate reveals a supple texture from barrel fermentation, balanced by vibrant acidity and a core of well-defined fruit, leading to a long, intense finish.
Serving recommendation
Serve chilled at 12-14°C to best appreciate its texture and fruit. No decanting required.