Allée Bleue Isabeau Chardonnay 2022

Allée Bleue Isabeau Chardonnay 2022 is an exceptional single-vineyard wine from the oldest vineyards at Allée Bleue Wine Estate in Franschhoek, South Africa. This Chardonnay is a striking example of how traditional viticulture and modern winemaking techniques combine to create a complex, elegant wine. Named to reflect the estate’s heritage, it captures both the richness of the region’s soils and the meticulous attention of the winemaker throughout the production process.

The grapes for Isabeau Chardonnay are hand-harvested from vineyards known for their low yields and high concentration, producing a wine that is both intense and nuanced. Fermentation takes place in a combination of French oak barrels and amphorae, with only 30% undergoing malolactic fermentation. During the first 100 days, the wine is regularly batonnaged, a process that keeps the lees in suspension to enhance texture, mouthfeel, and complexity.

After primary fermentation, the wine matures for ten months in the same barrels and amphorae, allowing subtle layers of aroma and flavor to develop. It then rests for an additional year in bottle before release, enabling the elements to integrate fully and the wine to achieve its optimal balance.

In the glass, Allée Bleue Isabeau Chardonnay 2022 displays a bright golden hue. The bouquet is expressive and layered, with aromas of stone fruits such as apricot and quince, fresh citrus notes, and delicate hints of oats and almond. This combination gives the wine a refined character and elegant complexity.

On the palate, the wine is dry, rich, and layered, with a soft, rounded texture and a harmonious balance between fresh fruit flavors and subtle oak influence. The flavor development is graceful and integrated, revealing new nuances with each sip.

Allée Bleue Isabeau Chardonnay 2022 is a remarkable expression of craftsmanship and terroir, a Chardonnay that harmoniously combines the traits of old vines, traditional techniques, and modern precision. It is a wine that unites finesse, depth, and a long, smooth finish, making it stand out as one of the finest South African white wines.