Creation Wines, Art of Chardonnay, Hemel en Arde, 2014

I tasted this twice in South Africa on consecutive days and on both occasions it impressed. Although it has been aged in 100% new barrels, the oak is barely perceptible except in the wine’s generous texture. Dry, savoury and mineral, this delightful Chardonnay by Swiss winemaker JC Martin is tautly balanced with fine acidity and savoury flavours of honey, lanolin and beeswax alongside the lush pear and custard cream sweetness. Round, balanced and long, this has a Meursault like complexity and intrigue. Delicious now, but will be even better in time. Tasted in South Africa in September 2015