# Estate Reserve Chardonnay (2021)

- **Producer:** Glenelly Estate
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.9%
- **Average price:** €19
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, lime, quince, lemon, butterscotch, pastry, vanilla, toasted nuts

## About this wine

Glenelly Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2021 is a 100% Chardonnay from Stellenbosch, South Africa. The estate was established by May-Elaine de Lencquesaing, formerly of Château Pichon Longueville, with a vision to blend French winemaking expertise with the South African terroir. Situated on the southern slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain, the estate benefits from a Mediterranean climate. The wine's unique character is a result of this blend of heritage and location, aiming for wines of grace, complexity, and longevity, balancing Old World elegance with New World fruitfulness through precise oak usage.

## Interesting facts

- Founded by a Bordeaux wine legend.
- Located on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain.
- Embraces natural fermentation.
- Aims for wines with aging potential.

## Food pairing

The wine's vivid acidity cuts through the richness of creamy sauces and fatty proteins, while its citrus and toasted nut notes complement seafood and poultry. The balance of fruit and oak makes it versatile for dishes with subtle herbal or buttery elements.

## Wine making process

The Glenelly Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2021 is produced from 100% Chardonnay grapes. The winemaking process involves fermentation in French oak barrels, with a philosophy that embraces natural fermentation. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging on its lees for 11 months in a combination of new and second-fill 500-liter French oak barrels. This approach is designed to create wines with structure and aging potential, reflecting the estate's commitment to quality and balance.