Chamonix Unoaked Chardonnay 2023
| Producer | Chamonix |
|---|---|
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | Franschhoek, Western Cape |
| Wine Type | White Wine |
| Body / Style | Aromatic |
| Grape Blend | 100% Chardonnay |
| Bottle Size (ml) | 750 |
| % Abv | 14 |
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Special Features | Vegan |
| Extra Info | Crisp, citrusy, pure |
| Food Pairing Guide | This fresh, pure unoaked Chardonnay is a versatile, easy partner for lighter dishes. It’s lovely with herb-crusted white fish, grilled prawns, moules marinières or a simple plate of fish and chips. Its citrus and stone-fruit freshness suits roast or grilled chicken with lemon, chicken Caesar salad or a classic Niçoise. Try it with sushi and sashimi, or with crab and avocado salad. It goes beautifully with asparagus, whether simply grilled, in a tart or with a light hollandaise, and with spring vegetable risotto or pasta primavera. It’s also a great match for soft cheeses and young goat’s cheese. It makes a refreshing aperitif too, served well chilled. |
Chamonix Unoaked Chardonnay shows a purer side of the grape that helped make this mountain estate famous. Chamonix has long been one of Franschhoek’s benchmark Chardonnay producers. With this wine, winemaker Neil Bruwer lets the estate’s fruit speak for itself, fermenting in stainless steel with no oak and keeping time on the lees short to preserve freshness and energy. Grown high on the slopes above the Franschhoek Valley, where cool breezes temper the summer heat, the grapes have an intense Chardonnay character that needs little help in the cellar.
In the glass it is a light, attractive straw yellow. The nose is vibrant and aromatic, with white peach, ripe apple and pear, citrus and a touch of fresh herbs. The palate is clean and lively, with grapefruit and citrus flavours and a mineral thread, while delicate floral and nutty notes add complexity. It finishes crisp and tangy. Think of a good Mâcon with a sunny South African twist: it’s an easy, elegant Chardonnay for everyday drinking and lighter dishes.
