2024 De Wetshof Estate Chardonnay Bon Vallon

It is a misconception to think that Chardonnay only possesses class if it has undergone wood aging. Look at wines like Chablis: if the Chardonnay grapes possess sufficient character of their own, they do not need wood to shine. And nowadays, wine drinkers also realize that unoaked Chardonnay, with its natural freshness, is delightful as an aperitif or as a wine to accompany light fish dishes. The Bon Vallon is De Wetshof’s answer to this new trend and the first South African 'unwooded' Chardonnay of class. The grapes for the Bon Vallon are harvested when they possess great power and flavor intensity. Just like with the Lesca, clones are used that further emphasize the fresh and citrusy character of the Chardonnay. The grapes benefit from a cool sea breeze from Cape Agulhas, which ensures abundant aroma and freshness. After fermentation, aging takes place on the lees (the yeast cells), which gives it a beautiful concentration and a pleasant butteriness that creates a perfect balance with the freshness and citrus fruit. The result is a delicious and, above all, refreshing glass of Chardonnay.

Powerful aroma, citrus, toasted bread, nuts and banana, exotic notes, butter, peach and apple; on the palate very buttery and full, a lovely rich wine, beautifully balanced, good juice, freshness too, some smokiness and lightly toasted, delicious citrus fruit. Pairs well with white meat, guinea fowl or turkey, salad with smoked trout and green asparagus, and soft cheeses.

De Wetshof Estate is located in the Robertson wine region, approximately 160 kilometers from Cape Town. Johann de Wet, the father of the current owner of De Wethof Estate, Danie, laid the foundation for the estate as it is today in 1952. For his son Danie, becoming a winemaker was not initially a given. In his heart, he actually wanted to become a veterinarian. His father persuaded him to go into wine anyway, because he saw the future of the farm in it. He convinced his son by promising him that he could study in Geisenheim, Germany, to broaden his horizons in Europe. In 1972, upon his return, De Wetshof became the first private cellar in Robertson, independent of the local cooperative. Danie saw numerous opportunities and planted noble varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Chardonnay. This led to De Wetshof becoming South Africa's most renowned producer of Chardonnay over the years. Under the leadership of Danie de Wet, De Wetshof has grown into one of South Africa's leading wine companies. It covers no less than 200 hectares, planted with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir.