Epicurean Chardonnay 2023

Epicurean, the wine brand owned by businessmen Mutle Mogase and Moss Ngoasheng, along with former Gauteng premier Mbhazima Shilowa, dates back to 2003. The wines are made by consultants, and the “A” number (industry shorthand for the legally accountable producer) on the label of the 2023 Chardonnay points to Leopard’s Leap as the producing cellar.

Made from Elgin grapes, the wine was fermented and matured for 10 months in a mix of 300-litre barrels and foudre. It’s elegant but not lightweight. The nose shows citrus, oatmeal and a touch of vanilla while the palate is compact and focused, with a dense core of fruit, bright acidity, and a savoury finish (alc: 13.71%). Clean and precise. Price: R600 a bottle.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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