South Africa’s leading Chardonnays were revealed at a gathering of wine lovers in Cape Town by wine commentator Christian Eedes in partnership with Sanlam Private Investments (SPI).
The aim:
An expert judging panel, led by Eedes, selected the country’s top 10 Chardonnays after tasting 60 wines which fared well in recent local or international competitions, as well as wines Eedes considered to be the best in their field.
They did an in-depth analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the category in question, rating all wines submitted with a detailed tasting note.
Chardonnay is getting competitive:
Eedes says the stylistic variation of Chardonnays has never been wider.
There seems to be a growing realisation that to compete at the top end of the market, playing it safe is not going to cut it. Consequently, there are some really innovative, even wacky, wines out there.
In recent times the trend has been towards wines that are clean and crisp, but there seems to be a shift back to making more mouth-filling, broad-flavoured wines.
Investing in wine:
Daniël Kriel, chief executive officer of SPI, says SPI is delighted to have once again partnered with Christian Eedes in the compiling of this year’s Chardonnay Report.
‘From an investor’s perspective, fine wine is a ‘passion investment’ and has historically served investors well. Congratulations to the winning winemakers – the top 10 wines were truly a delight to taste.’ –Daniël Kriel, chief executive officer of SPI
The Christian Eedes Top 10 Chardonnays for 2013:
5 stars
1. Groot Constantia 2012
2. Paul Cluver 2012
4½ stars
3. Hamilton Russell Vineyards 2012
4. Haskell Anvil 2012
5. Tokara Reserve Collection Stellenbosch 2012
6. KWV The Mentors 2012
4 stars
7. Boschendal Reserve Collection 2012
8. Crystallum The Agnes 2012
9. Fleur du Cap Unfiltered 2012
10. Rustenberg Five Soldiers 2011