GlenWood Chardonnay Wine Review, Franschhoek South Africa
Here is my wine review on GlenWood Chardonnay, which this year celebrates a significant milestone. Forty years ago, Alastair Wood purchased the land with a vision to produce world-class Chardonnays.
Today, GlenWood has not only achieved global recognition but also established itself as the Home of Chardonnay in Franschhoek, South Africa. Their chardonnay portfolio, consists of the Grand Duc Chardonnay 2022 (R740+ a bottle), Vigneron’s Selection Chardonnay 2023 (R350+ a bottle), and GlenWood Chardonnay 2024 (R170 a bottle). It is exemplary to see one winery offering three different styles of Chardonnay at various price points.
Grand Duc Chardonnay 2022: The Jewel of GlenWood
The Grand Duc Chardonnay 2022 is a standout and my favourite of the three, truly embodying GlenWood's dedication to producing exceptional wines. This vintage garnered 93 points at the 2023 Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge, continuing its tradition of high praise. Previous vintages have earned a 5-star rating in the 2022 and 2023 Platter Wine Guides, 91 points in the Tim Atkins Special Report on South African Wines, and a Gold medal at the 2020 Michelangelo Wine Awards.
On the palate, winemaker Natasha Pretorius's expertise shines through. The Grand Duc features a yellow straw colour with rich vanilla and ripe pineapple aromas. The subtle use of oak imparts delightful toasty vanilla notes, seamlessly blending with citrus and marmalade flavours on the aftertaste. Priced at R740 per bottle, this wine is a worthy investment for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
I must say, this wine did have delicious notes of glazed pineapple and was like ‘honey on toast’ on the palate. A truly magnificent food wine. I also think that it is fascinating that this wine spent 20 months on the lees in 100% new 500L French oak barrels. Yet the fruit was the star of the show.
Vigneron’s Selection Chardonnay 2023: A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship
The Vigneron’s Selection Chardonnay 2023 showcases the meticulous craftsmanship of Cellar Master DP Burger, who has dedicated over 30 years to GlenWood. This vintage presents a beautiful yellow straw colour with subtle aromas of tropical fruits and vanilla. The creamy palate reveals prominent citrus flavours and hints of dried orange peel, creating a rich, full-bodied, and nutty wine.
Scoring 92 points at the 2023 Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge and earning a 5-star rating in the 2023 Platter Wine Guide for a previous vintage, the Vigneron’s Selection Chardonnay 2023 is truly a work of art. At R350 per bottle, it offers an exquisite tasting experience for Chardonnay aficionados.
This wine spent 9 months on the lees in 30% new French oak and 70% second and third-fill barrels. It is a well-balanced wine and I experienced lovely dried stone fruit and toasty notes on the palate.
The Elegance of South African Chardonnay
GlenWood Vineyards represents the pinnacle of quality and tradition in South African Chardonnay. Their unwavering commitment to crafting exceptional wines has garnered them numerous awards and a dedicated following.
Give their winery a visit, and be sure to try their delectable sushi too!
Wine regards, Leanne
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