Barista Chardonnay 2024/25, Western Cape

South African Chardonnay is a bit of an unsung gem. The country’s best known for its blockbuster reds – like Barista Pinotage. And now the winemaker behind that customer favourite has made this ripe, fruity, juicy Chardonnay. Bertus Fourie is nicknamed ‘Starbucks’ because he’s famous for bringing out the distinctive coffee-like flavours of his trademark Pinotage. He’s done the same with this white. It’s all about citrus. Zippy, zesty, creamy citrus – with just a touch of peach and vanilla. It’s part-fermented and matured in old oak barrels, giving the texture a roundness which is a great foil to the crispness of the fruit. It’s delicious with grilled chicken.