Benguela Cove is located in the Walker Bay subregion, just an hour's drive from Cape Town International Airport. Situated on the edge of the Bot River Lagoon, the area teems with birdlife and natural flora and fauna, with the Atlantic Ocean on the horizon. The estate, which comprises 70 hectares of vines, was purchased in 2013 by entrepreneur Penny Streeter. The estate has been recognized for its craftsmanship, led by experienced cellar master Johann Fourie.
The grapes are harvested at peak ripeness, hand-sorted, and pressed whole bunch. The juice is transferred to barrel. Indigenous yeast strains were allowed for alcoholic fermentation to enhance the aromatics and mouthfeel. During the first two months, the wine is aged on its lees with a stick for the entire duration of the aging process. To preserve the freshness and vibrant fruit, it does not undergo secondary malolactic fermentation. Finally, the wine is aged for 11 months in French oak barrels.
This Vinography Chardonnay is pale yellow in color. The aroma offers a broad palette of citrus and citrus fruit. A true spectacle. All these nuances are subtly introduced as the wine warms, revealing ginger, hazelnut, lemon curd, loquat, and lemon verbena. The palate is highly elegant. The fruit and the beautiful acidity combine beautifully, giving the Chardonnay its length. A finish with intense flavor and concentration is a pleasant conclusion.
