Chardonnay 2023, Hamilton Russell Vineyards

The Cape's most serious Chardonnay, and it is priced like a good Burgundy because it belongs in that conversation. Harvest dates for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay were almost uncannily in-line with 2021 and 2022 and our long-term average. But whereas Pinot noir experienced even and easy bud-break, Chardonnay suffered from fewer winter cold units (a particular susceptibility of the variety) and not only had uneven bud-break, but one of our lowest yields in 10 years. This required careful triage, generally three passes per vineyard. Natural acids were very good for both Pinot noir and Chardonnay. At 24.18 centigrade for the average maximum temperatures for the 4 "hottest" months (Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar) building up to and during harvest, 2023 was one of our coolest years on record. Burgundy for the equivalent period has an average of 24.66 Centigrade. For those lucky enough to harvest before the substantial late season rains, 2023 produced vibrant, energetic but textured wines with wonderful natural acidity. An excellent result for a vintage that was not without its challenges. Wine Style; A tight, minerally wine with classic Hamilton Russell Vineyards length and complexity. Unusually prominent pear and lime fruit aromas and flavours are brought beautifully into focus by a tight line of bright natural acid and a long, dry minerality. An elegant, yet textured and intense wine with a strong personality of both place and vintage. Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, R320, Hermanus, Cape of Good Hope, South Africa www.hamiltonrussellvineyards.com