91 Points Vinous
The 2018 Chardonnay Estate, matured in 33% new oak with about one-third going through malo, presents a bouquet of mineral-led citrus fruit, reserved at first but opening with time to become quite precise and poised. The palate is well defined with a crisp line of acidity, and fresh and saline toward the finish, which lingers nicely in the mouth. Very fine.
The wine shows a light hay hue in color and on the nose it reveals great aspects of citrus with some stone fruit and oak notes. Tangerine fruit and citrus blossom fragrances are apparent, with hints of vanilla pod and almond flakes. The palate is an exciting combination of crisp citrus fruit with great complexity, concentration. The balanced, fresh acidity is natural, and adds focus to the wine.
Perfect to pair alongside fish, poultry, pork and game bird dishes work well with this wine. It works particularly well with creamy pastas and salmon dishes. The good acidity and balance between wood and fruit keeps the wine from being overly rich and consequently, great without food too. Mussel soup is a perfect match
The estate falls within the Kogelberg Reserve where conservation and sustainable use of natural resources are pursued with the ultimate goal of balance and harmony between man and nature. The Kogelberg Nature Reserve, which forms the core of The Biosphere, is a fynbis floral kingdon with an incredible 1,600 different plant species, making it one of the world's richest sites of plant diversity.
Within this unique environment exists virgin land some 400-500m above sea level with a variety of soils, aspects and microclimates. The high, cool Elgin Mountain plateau, with its close proximity to the sea and protection by the mountins, is idealy situated for the production of premium varietal wines. this provides the ideal environment for slower ripening grapes of finess and delicacy that characterise Paul Cluver Wines.
