Bruce Jack Hard Day Chardonnay 2022

I recently received the Bruce Jack Hard Day Chardonnay via press drop. It’s not a wine that I would normally seek out to purchase and was pleasantly surprised just by the look of it.

The bottle is elegantly shaped with a minimalistic, textured label and rose gold wax seal. I love the call out of “Cape South Coast” and the mention of South Africa as it proudly should. It’s R270 a bottle which is a bit higher than most chardonnays in South Africa but having spent 8 months in barrel, the price is justified.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, fresh apricots with butterscotch and a hint of lemon zest. The first sip shows fresh, mid to high acidity with notes of crisp apples and citrus followed by subtle hints of vanilla which is a nice nod to the oak influence. This is a dry wine with good salinity, thanks to the coastal influence, and the finish lingers just long enough to pair perfectly with various dishes.

Food Pairing

Good wine is best enjoyed with good food, and Hard Day Chardonnay pairs effortlessly with a range of dishes. Its versatility makes it a great choice for both simple home-cooked meals and more refined dining if you’re going out.

Food pairings:

Roast Chicken – A natural pairing, as the wine’s freshness cuts through the richness of the dish.

Butter Chicken Curry – The creamy sauce and gentle spices are beautifully complemented by the wine’s subtle oak and citrus notes.

Roasted Root Vegetables – The caramelised edges of butternut, sweet potato, and carrots bring out the wine’s warm toffee undertones.

Soft Cheeses – Brie, Camembert, or mild blue cheese create a creamy contrast to the wine’s acidity.

Buy this wine

You can grab a bottle of Bruce Jack Hard Day Chardonnay online at www.brucejack.com or pop into selected TOPS at SPAR stores. At R270, it’s a treat, but hey—after a long, hot day, you totally deserve it.