Bellevue Estate Chardonnay 2018

If you think Chardonnay only thrives in France and California, think again.

Stellenbosch is often called South Africa’s answer to Napa Valley, and “consistently produces the greatest number of the Cape’s finest wines” (Tim Atkin, MW). The region has been home to winemaking since the 17th century, and today, its quality-focused, boutique estates are among the most awarded in the country.

This gorgeous Reserve hails from the Morkel family’s historic Bellevue Estate (founded in 1861). Crafted with estate-grown Chardonnay, the wine was fermented in new French oak barrels and aged on its lees for 12 months. These techniques gave it a rich, full-bodied palate and imparted butterscotch and biscuit notes to the complex, citrus-fruit flavors. (You can also look forward to generous aromas of orange peel, ruby grapefruit and golden apple.)

It sports a double-gold medal at the Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards—and is destined to be a hit with fans of opulent California Chardonnays.

Elegant and creamy, it’s a natural match for white-sauced pizzas (like the ‘Chardonnay Pizza’ served at the estate’s restaurant), but also pairs well with fried fish and truffled pasta alfredo.

And here’s a fun fact to share as you pour: Bellevue Estate also houses a 17th-century signaling cannon and an original Cape Dutch homestead, which was built in 1803 and has been declared a National Monument.

We’re eager to hear what you think. Pop open a bottle and leave us a review.