Rich & Oaky

Kershaw GPS Series Lower Duivenhoks River Chardonnay 2018 has a gorgeous aromatic intensity displaying peach blossom, incense, white nectarine, red apple and a flutter of dried pineapple. Nudges of oat bran and oat flakes are also there. This wine is very much a juxtaposition of soft, gentle smoothness set alongside an incisive mineral acidity. Broader in the mid-palate in contrast with clean lines and focus that drives the wine along in the mouth. As the wine unfolds further, there is a chalk dust texture, coated with supple tinned peach slices, pear flesh, satsuma peel and suggestions of pineapple; all gently enrobed with a creamy, light, spicy oak. On the extended finish, there is even a hint of lemon acid and pithiness, adding further complexity to a hugely appealing wine. Certainly, it is one of the best Chardonnay vintages of the past 10 years. Selected from a single vineyard block of Chardonnay in the Lower Duivenhoks River area. The wine rested in barrel for eleven months. A small number of artisanal coopers were selected, all from Burgundy, and only French oak was chosen. Importantly, each clone and soil type was microvinified as separate batches. In 2020, it was 62% new oak and 100% in 228L barrels.