Grande Provence Chardonnay is a fresh expression of Franschhoek elegance

Elegant with a sense of place that is quintessentially Franschhoek is the crux Grande Provence Chardonnay 2017, the latest vintage to be released by this landmark heritage wine estate.

Taking its cue from winemaker Hagen Viljoen, Grande Provence is forging a new style of Chardonnay that is more fruit driven, fresher and gently wooded.

“Our 2017 vintage was crafted in a terroir focused style showing more fruit expression and freshness than our previous richer and more heavily wooded vintages. The typical Franschhoek characteristic of lemony citrus comes to the fore supported by vanilla oak and a fine acidity that gives the wine more linearity, length and balance,” says Viljoen.

The wine was crafted from Franschhoek grapes nurtured in the cooler Robertsvlei valley, allowing for slow ripening that leads to better flavour development and acid retention. Grande Provence Chardonnay 2017 brims with concentrated fruit flavours followed by superb fruit and wood integration on the palate. Maturation for 11 months in a combination of 50% first, 30% second and 20% third fill French oak barrels lends finesse and a lingering, creamy finish.

“The wine is perfect to enjoy now but can benefit from further ageing in ideal cellaring conditions for another two to three years from vintage,“ adds Viljoen who enjoys this wine most with smoked fish and creamy seafood dishes. It is also a good match with roasted pork or chicken.

Grande Provence Chardonnay 2017 sells for R155 at the Grande Provence Tasting Room in Franschhoek and can be found at leading wine shops and fine dining restaurants. For added convenience, this wine can be purchased online from www.grandeprovence.co.za. Purchases of 12 bottles or more qualify for free delivery anywhere in South Africa.

Issued by: GC COMMUNICATIONS
Pictures: SUPPLIED

©2018 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA