Kleine Zalze Cleefs Reserve Chardonnay 2018 Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa 75cl

Kleine Zalze has built its reputation in Stellenbosch on doing the classics well across every price point, from crowd-pleasing everyday bottles to age-worthy reserves. The Cleefs Reserve tier sits above the everyday range, a step up in ambition where the fruit selection and barrel work are given more room. This Chardonnay is made in a richer, more textured style than the entry wines.

Chardonnay responds closely to how it is handled in the cellar, and here the aim is balance between fruit and oak. Pure Chardonnay is barrel-fermented and matured to build a creamy mid-palate and a little toasty complexity, while the underlying Stellenbosch acidity keeps the wine fresh rather than heavy.

The 2018 comes from a Stellenbosch vintage that followed several dry seasons at the Cape, giving smaller berries and concentrated, ripe white-wine fruit that suits this fuller style. Careful barrel selection keeps the oak in a supporting role rather than letting it dominate.

Expect aromas of lemon curd, white peach and a hint of vanilla and toasted nut from the barrel. The palate is rounded and creamy, with ripe citrus and stone fruit carried on a fresh line to a savoury, gently mineral finish. It has enough weight to partner richer dishes and is best served lightly chilled rather than cold, so the texture shows.

For anyone who enjoys a lightly oaked New World Chardonnay with structure, this is an easy recommendation, offering reserve-level character at an approachable level. Good with roast chicken, creamy pasta, or grilled firm-fleshed fish.