2018 Capensis Chardonnay Western Cape South Africa

Reviews for the 2018 Capensis Chardonnay from South Africa's Western Cape are generally positive, with critics praising its complexity, balance, and minerality, highlighting notes of ripe apple, citrus, vanilla, and nuts, and often mentioning its layered palate and long, refined finish. Scores from critics, such as Greg Sherwood MW (95+/100), confirm its high quality and ability to age gracefully.

Key Characteristics

• Aromas: Ripe apple, citrus blossom, almond, and savory waxy lemons. 


• Palate: Rich, balanced, and layered with flavors of baked apple, lemon curd, tropical fruit, and hints of vanilla and toffee. 


• Texture: Supple, oily, or silky, with a refined and sometimes firm acidity. 


• Minerality: A prominent feature, described as a fine, stony vein of minerality or a salty finish. 


• Critic Scores & Opinions


• Greg Sherwood MW: .Scored it 95+/100, calling it an intense, well-made expression with smoky minerality, citrus, honeycomb, and vanilla. 


• Wine-Searcher: Aggregated scores from various critics, with an average score of 91/100 for the 2018 vintage, noting notes of peach, almond, and a supple, oily texture. 


• Dutch Wine Apprentice: Gave a DWA-score of 94/100, describing it as a masterclass in complexity with notes of ripe apple, almond, and vanilla, and a long, minerally finish.