Matured for 11 months in small oak barrels, the 2009 Single Vineyard Chardonnay has a gorgeous, refined bouquet with crushed stone, lime flower, a touch of white peach all succinctly entwined with new oak. The palate is very well balanced with a delicate entry that expands beautifully across the palate with notes of orange peel and subtle apricot. It is both long and vibrant in the mouth with a palpable sense of tension. This Chardonnay exudes thoughtful winemaking and is highly recommended. Drink now-2020. Sourced from 14-year old vines, winemaker Matthew Van Heerden has produced one of South Africa’s outstanding Chardonnays that stood out like a sore thumb in a blind tasting.Importer: Michael Skurnik Wines, New York, 11791. Tel 516-677-9300.