Wine Advisor
Hamilton Russell Vineyards, Chardonnay 2020
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Description
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Anthony Mueller
Gorgeously seductive in the glass, the 2020 Chardonnay immediately offers aromas of citrus pastry cream, butterscotch, nutmeg, crème brûlée and yellow apple panna cotta. Medium-bodied and impeccably balanced, there is a pleasing texture to the mouthfeel, followed by bright acidity that frames the mid-palate. Ending with a long-lingering and inspiring finish, persistent flavors of toasted almonds, citrus blossom and quince skin linger on the aftertaste. It’s a beautiful and delicious wine, one I cannot wait to retry in 10 years' time. Bravo!
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
The 2020 Chardonnay has a light bouquet with touches of honeysuckle and jasmine, well defined but in need of a little more presence. The palate is fresh and vibrant with fine acidity, quite zen-like, and steely and saline toward the finish. This is a much leaner style of Chardonnay from Hamilton Russell and I appreciate that, though I must confess that I found myself wishing for more extract, something for my senses to cling on to.
About the Producer
Hamilton Russell Vineyards is one of the most southerly wine estates in Africa and one of the closest to the sea, pioneering viticulture and winemaking in the beautiful, cool, maritime Hemel-en-Aarde Valley appellation, located just behind the old fishing village of Hermanus. The estate specializes in producing highly individual, terroir-driven Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which are widely regarded as the best in South Africa and among the finest in the New World. Their commitment to quality and expression of the unique terroir has established Hamilton Russell as a standout producer in the region.
