Leeu Passant Chardonnay, Stellenbosch

Smooth and velvety Chardonnay with fine structure and energized freshness. Whole bunch pressed. Aged for 12 months in FR oak barrels, 33% new and 10 months in 2nd and 3rd fill oak barrels. Pale lemon colour, greenish touch. Medium+ intensity aroma of lemons, quince, pineapple, stone, green apples, chalky hints. Medium+ body, silky and mildly creamy texture, zesty edges, citrusy freshness with stone and tropical fruit notes, flinty touch, medium+ crisp acidity.

Beautifully soft and mouth filling. These never seem to last long enough for me to say how long they will live but I don’t think there’s much of a rush based on this showing

Nose of honey and elderflowers reminiscent of a late summer day. Pear, vanilla and minerality with high acidity and wonderful freshness. Good length.

Aromatic bouquet with ripe yellow fruits. On the palate ripe yellow fruits, minerals, herbaceous, grasses, a touch of sweetness and good acidity

Medium greenish golden yellow in appearance. Buttered nose, pineapple, citrus, golden apple, and straw. Medium acidity (6/10) and creamy medium plus body. Rich and layered palate with white gravel, baked apples, tropical fruits, citrus and spiced butter. Long finish. Drink till 2032.

Pale white with greenish hints. Surprisingly delicate, soft yet complex aromas of almond, chalk, apple, honey and fresh butter. A bit smoky entering the palate, very long finish. Really enjoy how elegant and pleasant it is. Tasted in Franschhoek the first time, I believe it is still very young, I would have waited 3-5 years.

Very dry and drinkable

Surprised this is already drinking so well. Oak is well integrated and provides body, but tart green apple fruit is chased by sweet green stonefruit. Long and bracing acidity ensures freshness. Full of vigour now.

Medium greenish golden yellow in appearance. Lush and layered nose with butter, pineapple, a little bit of straw, citrus, vanilla and baked apples. Medium acidity (6/10) and creamy medium plus body. Rich palate with minerality, baked apples, tropical fruits, lemon curd and spiced butter. Long finish. Drink till 2032.