Description
The 2023 Beeslaar Chardonnay exhibits fragrant aromas of citrus fruits and green apples. On the palate, ripe pineapple flavours contrast delicately with the mineral nucleus of the wine. In addition to the delicate acidity that interweaves with the perfectly balanced core, the moderate alcohol content contributes to a palate-pleasing and revitalising finish.
Tasting Notes
James Suckling 93
Ripe peaches, baked apples, custard, vanilla and apricots on the nose of this creamy, caressing white. It s full-bodied, buttery and peachy, with generous vanilla and cream notes lingering at the end. Sustainable. Drink now or hold. [James Suckling, 01/11/2025]
Greg Sherwood 94+
The 2023 Chardonnay from Abrie Beeslaar is the most distinguished expression he has produced to date and offers an enthralling opulence and intensity commensurate with the high-quality reputation of the 2023 vintage. The grapes, 65% from Barrydale and 35% from Banghoek, Stellenbosch, were sourced from vineyards situated on a mixture of shale and high-altitude granitic soils, which impart the wine with an exceptional sense of luxury and textural sophistication. After a period of 48 hours of settling, the juice underwent fermentation in a combination ceramic vessels and 225-litre oak barriques, 20% new, before being barrel aged on its fine lees for 12 months to impart additional complexity, texture, and mouthfeel. On the nose, the aromatics reveal an alluring melange of honeysuckle, white blossom, yellow stone fruits, pithy citrus, lemon peel, crushed granite and delicately leesy, biscuity dried herb nuances. On the palate, there is a beautiful sense of power and poise with mouthwatering layers of sweet pineapple chunks, Braeburn apples, vanilla pod, and yellow grapefruit with an intricate line of crystalline acidity before a final rasping wet stone phenolic mineral grip on the finish. A thoroughly accomplished wine that promises to drink well for at least another 6 to 8+ years. [Greg Sherwood MW, 14/01/2025]