Celebrating International Chardonnay Day with Elgin Ridge’s 282

Whilst our normal is not entirely ‘normal’ let’s embrace the change with a glass of Chardonnay on Thursday, 21 May as we toast International Chardonnay Day.

Although wine supplies are looking a bit sad at the moment we invite you to dream of Elgin Ridge Wines’ 282 Chardonnay (the name given to indicate the height above sea level), which you can sip and savour once alcohol sales have reopened.

Research has shown that there is a trend to move away from the traditional to organic, and this is where Elgin Ridge ticks the right boxes, as it is only one of a handful of certified biodynamic wine producers in South Africa. Situated in the heart of the Elgin Wine Valley, which is renowned for its unique terroir, natural beauty and undeniable character, wines from this boutique estate are handcrafted and made to enjoy for all year round enjoyment.

In celebration of International Chardonnay Day owners Brian and Marion Smith will be releasing the 282 Chardonnay Magnums for the 2016 and 2017 vintages. Limited in their own right, only 15 bottles of each vintage will be made available to purchase at the unbelievable price of R750 per bottle (online wine sales only). This offer will only be available for 21 May.

On the nose the 282 Chardonnay 2016 displays slight struck match aromas at first, but opens up to fresh citrus and pear juiciness, which is due to the warm growing season the 2016 vintage experienced. On the palate the wine shows the same fruit profile with added cedar and nuances of cinnamon spice. This results in a long and textured finish with lively acidity.

On the other hand the 282 Chardonnay 2017 starts off with fresh and linear lime tension on the nose, which opens up to citrus blossoms. The pithy texture on the palate keeps the sweet citrus fruits tightly knit at first, but as more oxygen enters the wine in your glass, the pithy texture opens up to a velvet-like mouthfeel. This leaves you with a wine that will continue to change in aroma expression as time passes.

In case you miss out on the amazing Magnum offer we recommend you consider the highly acclaimed 282 Chardonnay 2018. This wine starts off with fresh and linear lime tension and opens up to sweet satsuma and candied citrus. The pithy texture keeps the sweet citrus fruits tightly knit at first. With more oxygen entering the wine in your glass, the pithy texture opens up to a velvet-like mouthfeel and leaves you with a wine that will continue to change in aroma expression as time passes. Guaranteed to be the talk of your next ‘safe’ social gathering post lockdown, the wine is available directly from the farm at R250 per bottle.

These wines are perfect on their own or paired with light and delicate food such as raw and lightly cooked shellfish, pasta or risotto with spring vegetables. Also pairs perfectly with creamy vegetable soups.

For more information visit www.elginridge.com.