# Clonal Selection Chardonnay (2022)

- **Producer:** Richard Kershaw Wines
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** pear skin, white peach, lemon, oats, cloves, vanilla

## About this wine

The Kershaw Wines Clonal Selection Chardonnay is a white wine from the Elgin region in the Western Cape, South Africa. Established by Richard Kershaw, South Africa's only winemaking Master of Wine, the winery focuses on producing site-specific wines from cool climates. The Elgin Valley's high altitude and oceanic influence provide conditions ideal for Chardonnay. This particular bottling utilizes specific Dijon clones, chosen for their ability to produce elegant wines, and is sourced from small vineyard plots with distinct soil types. The winemaking philosophy emphasizes capturing the unique terroir of Elgin through meticulous viticultural and oenological practices.

## Interesting facts

- Crafted from specific Dijon clones (CY76, CY95, CY96) developed in Burgundy.
- Elgin's climate is often compared to Burgundy, France.
- Richard Kershaw is South Africa's sole winemaking Master of Wine.
- The wine is made from small plots with distinct soil types.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and balanced acidity complement richer dishes by cutting through fat and cleansing the palate. Its subtle oak integration and fruit notes can bridge with creamy sauces, herbs, and even slightly sweet elements in food.

## Wine making process

The Kershaw Wines Clonal Selection Chardonnay is produced using whole-bunch pressing, followed by fermentation in Burgundy barrels. A portion of new oak is utilized during aging, complemented by lees aging. This approach is designed to enhance the wine's complexity and texture. Low yields are maintained in the vineyard to ensure grape concentration and quality. The winemaking process is guided by Richard Kershaw's philosophy of site-specific expression and meticulous attention to detail, aiming to capture the essence of the Elgin terroir.