Atlas Swift Franschhoek Chardonnay 2021

Kleur: volgeel
Geur: zeer open, rokerig, mineraal, vuursteen, steenfruit, perzik en citrus.
Smaak: fris, nectarine en mineralig. Spannend en anders.
Houdbaar: op dronk, gemaakt om goed te ouderen, minimaal tot 2028
Lekker bij: volle vissoorten als zalm en tong, schaal-en schelpdieren, sushi, jonge kaas, gevogelte als kalkoen.

Herkomst
Franschhoek is a broad vineyard-lined valley situated 80 km’s west of Cape Town, and is nestled within mountain ranges that borders on three sides. It has a warm, continental climate, ideally suited to the production of heavy, robust red wines and rich, fruit-driven white wines. The mountains trap cold southerly breezes, extending the growing season and imparting complex aromas in the grapes. Soils are largely made up of alluvial sandstone, although there are deposits of granite on the slopes of the mountains in the north. Some irrigation is needed since lower slope sandy soils drain quickly.

Winemaking
The grapes were harvested by hand, whole bunch pressed and transferred to French oak barrels (30% new and the balance made up of 2nd and 3rd fill oak) where it underwent spontaneous fermentation. The wine was fermented and matured in oak for a total period of 12 months, with lees stirring twice a week to enhance the texture. Only 20% underwent malolactic fermentation to retain the freshness. After bottling, the wine was aged for a further 12 months prior to its release.

Tasting note
An aromatic wine with inviting aromas of ripe peach, apricot, roasted cashew nuts and subtle undertones of magnolia and frangipani flowers. The palate has a fleshy texture, ably supported by ripe nectarine and apricot fruit flavours, and a flinty edge. The length is satisfying, persistent, and rounded off with a slight oily texture on the finish.

Platter’s **** 88/100 
Offers the full gamut of tropical fruit, underpinned by a fresh line of citrus & oak vanilla. 2021 very zesty & moreish. Tiny quantities of this range, a fascinating study in expressions of chardonnay.