De Wetshof Bon Vallon Unwooded Chardonnay 2023

De Wetshof Bon Vallon Unwooded Chardonnay, Robertson, South Africa, 2023       

Grape: 100% Chardonnay, unwooded, 15 year old vines on limestone soil

Bon Vallon is an unwooded Chardonnay exuding a brisk and clean freshness of fresh green apple, classic flavours including citrus, wild flowers and grilled nuts, with zingy, mineral flavours lingering on the palate. A full bodied, dry white wine. 

Critics' Tasting Notes:

"Opening with a citrus and mineral-driven nose, the 2023 Bon Vallon Chardonnay displays notions of wet concrete and petrichor before aromas of lemon oil sway out of the glass. Medium-bodied, the palate displays fresh notions of citrus blossom with spiced white tea while delivering vibrant acidity with a balanced structure possessing freshness and finesse. Only 48,000 bottles were produced after the wine rested on the lees for between 80 and 120 days."

92/100 points, Anthony Mueller, WINE ADVOCATE, December 2023

"From rocky soils with quite a bit of calcium carbonate content. No oak here: it’s matured on its lees for 6 months, but it’s remarkably complex and intense. This is a really nicely focused Chardonnay showing a core of bright citrus fruit supported by keen acidity. There’s just a hint of toastiness and spice, with the core of the wine being the bright lemon, lime, mandarin and grapefruit characters. It’s concentrated, taut and mineral. This will age... really good value for money, too"

94/100 points, Jamie Goode, WINE ANORAK, September 2024

The succulent palate structure makes this an ideal food wine, superb with cream based pasta dishes, light curries as well as roast pork and veal dishes. Try it with fish & seafood including oysters, salmon burgers, cod brandade, grilled lobster, and moules marinière.

De Wetshof has dominated the "Unwooded Chardonnay" category at the South African "Veritas" awards since 2015.