Rustenberg Chardonnay (75cl, 13%)

A 100% Chardonnay from Stellenbosch, South Africa, fermented with wild yeast in 300L oak barrels at 13% ABV in a 750ml bottle. It is produced by Rustenberg Wines. Rustenberg Wines has roots tracing back to 1682 in the Simonsberg-Stellenbosch ward. The Chardonnay undergoes spontaneous fermentation using indigenous wild yeast in 300L French oak barrels. After fermentation it ages on its lees for 10 months in a blend of 25% new French oak with the balance in second, third and fourth-fill barrels. The bouquet opens with butter and toasted brioche, then apricot, clementine and red apple skin, with almond paste and coconut. On the palate there is baked apple and ripe pear, then citrus rind and sponge cake richness, with fresh acidity and hints of marzipan and orange peel. The finish is medium in length with marzipan and subtle vanilla, leaving a mineral, almost chalky impression.