One of THE BEST South African Chardonnays I have tried and tasted.

Jordan “Nine Yards” Chardonnay. This wine derives its name from the extra amount of TLC and effort being put into producing this reserve-style chardonnay.

Best vines with grapes being harvested from twenty-eight-year-old vines growing in the cooler Mediterranean climate of the Stellenbosch Kloof. This makes for the harvesting of some of the best white-skinned grapes in the South African wine industry. The cooler temperature of this area contributes to the uniqueness of wines produced by the Jordan stable in general.

Partially wild yeast fermented and with French oak barrels used in fermentation and maturation. These barrels are being rolled on a regular basis to accentuate the character of the wine.

You are absolutely right; it sounds more like caring for a child than making wine and DEFINITELY going “nine yards plus” BUT the proof is in the pudding.

Enough background info and facts let’s get down to business. What does the wine taste like? Well I’m not sure what heaven in a glass tastes like but this is darn close I’m sure of it.
The slight acidity, lime and citrus that is known to Chardonnay is prominent, a hint of cloves and soft flavours of creamy butterscotch add to the full mouth feel. This is all tied together by the slight undertone of smoky oak derived from the French Oak barrels used during the maturation process.

Pairing this magnificent wine with certain food types is quite easy. The citrus flavours and acidity on the palate cuts through the creamy richness of sauces such as béarnaise and creamy mushroom which makes it a great partner to a selection of pastas as well as “naturally oily” fish dishes such as tuna and salmon. The butterscotch and earthy oak undertones pairs beautifully with truffle. Less complex and easy everyday pairings include pork, white fish and poultry.

I personally feel the BEST pairing is with one’s palate while watching the sun set over an open area whilst on safari...

Until the next one, keep corks popping and keep those glasses full!!!