Paul WallaceReflection Chardonnay 2017 (R179.83 per bottle, 6 Bottles)

Paul and Nicky Wallace purchased their 25 hectare farm in September 2003 and immediately set out to create their own little piece of heaven. Paul is a viticultural consultant and here at last he could practise what he has advised and encouraged other farmers to do in their vineyards. It has long been Paul's belief that the cool-climate region of Elgin, previously best known for its apples and pears, is one of the most exciting developing wine regions within the South African wine industry and indeed internationally.

Winemaking: Wine of Origin Elgin Harvest Date 20th February 2017 Analysis: Alcohol 13.63% (13.5% on label) Residual Sugar 1.7 g/l pH 3.38 TA 6.4 g/l

Winemaking and Tasting Notes:

Only sold on distribution, we were lucky enough to get our hands on a few cases of this incredible wine, a fantastic addition to the collection and a wonderful gift. The 2017 Paul Wallace Reflection Chardonnay is the second vintage of their Chardonnay. This small production of 5 barrels / 1315 bottles has been vinified from a parcel of Chardonnay grapes (Clone CY95) procured from a neighbouring farm. Whilst the estate planted 1 hectare of their our own Chardonnay grapes on Wallovale Vineyards, these will only come into production from the 2019 harvest. In the meantime, we are experimenting with our chosen style. The name “Reflection” is derived from the magnificent early morning and evening reflection of our Chardonnay vineyard in the dam at the bottom of the sloping Chardonnay vineyard.

The Chardonnay was vinified by Gavin Patterson in the Belfield Cellar. The grapes were whole bunch basket pressed, inoculated with DV10 yeast strain and fermented in French oak barriques sourced from Burgundian coopers. There is a 20% new wood component and malolactic fermentation was pinned at 50%. After 9 months in wood, the wine was bottled on 25th January 2018.

The Reflection Chardonnay leads with prominent notes of lemons and limes with a touch of fennel on the nose. A fruit-forward entry onto the palate where citrus notes and a delicate oaky sweetness, combined with an underlying minerality produce a wine with good breadth, length and mouthfeel. This Chardonnay reflects purity of fruit, a natural elegance and texture prevalent in Chardonnays from the Elgin Valley.

A rewarding wine that will compliment most seafood dishes, fresh oysters, poultry or even a heavenly piece of gorgonzola cheese. Best served slightly chilled.

Awards: 

• Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show 2018 Silver 
• National Wine Challenge 2018 Double Gold
• Sommeliers Selection 2018 ‘Elegant and Classy’ Category
• Nominated for Platter 5*
• IWSC 2018 Silver Outstanding