Philippe Colin may well be a familiar name, as he is renowned for producing some of the finest Chassagne-Montrachet back at home in Burgundy. His family has been making wine in Chassagne for generations and his wines are incredibly well-followed.
Philippe is now undertaking a similar feat in South Africa but at a fraction of the price. Since a visit in 2014 when he became fascinated with vineyard potential, he has produced some of the most exciting South African Chardonnay in the foothills of the Wemmershoek Mountains. We were really impressed by the 2015 debut vintage when we tasted (and subsequently offered) last year. A tasting last week of the 2016 Chardonnay proved that Topiary Vineyards is building upon early success.
The 2016 Topiary Chardonnay clearly shows the influence of Burgundy as well as the dexterity of winemaker Philippe Colin. This is a worthy follow-up to the 2015 and provides similarly outstanding value as well as demonstrates quite how exciting the white wine scene in South Africa currently is when in the right hands.
To date, we are not aware of any critics having tasted the 2016 vintage, but I include a note from Victoria Stephens-Clarkson MW, Atlas' Head of Buying.
2016 Chardonnay, Topiary Vineyards
£95 per six bottle case in bond
The Chardonnay vineyard lies above the cellar on some of the rockiest and poorest soils of the estate. Consequently, the fruit that this vineyard yields is remarkably concentrated. Fermentation is carried out in stainless steel after which the wine is transferred to 450 litre Roussouw barrels of which a quarter are new. Just 5,500 bottles are produced from the smallest of the estate’s vineyards.
Notes of citrus and fine French oak, with a hint of spice enliven the bouquet. The palate is slightly richer than the first vintage, and will suit cellaring just as well, if not benefit from an extra year’s ageing compared to the 2015. The wine has excellent balance that would rival many a Villages wine, with its refreshing cut of lemon zest and just-gathered herbs. Another stunning wine from Topiary Vineyards. (Victoria Stephens-Clarkson, MW) Drink: 2018 to 2021
Please let us know of your interest. The Topiary will be available for delivery from early October.