Winemaker Salome Buys-Vermeulen has just released a maiden vintage of the Lozärn Chardonnay 2018, worthy of joining the brand’s distinctive range.

The Robertson Wine Valley has developed a fine reputation for its chardonnays, both wooded and unwooded, offering wine lovers a choice that also extends to variations in style.

With the Lozärn Chardonnay the winemaker has effectively blended grapes from two distinctly different soil types to create a wine that is harmoniously balanced: 80% of the berries came from shale or koffieklip in the Robertson area, which, after crushing, matured for seven months in oak barrels, mostly second fill. The remaining 20%, sourced from the clay soils of Bonnievale, were crushed and matured in stainless steel tanks.

The resulting blend offers classic chardonnay aromas of citrus and butterscotch, leading to layers of the same on the palate, backed by a crisp freshness. Hints of flint complement the backbone from the oak.

With just 1100 bottles produced, the Lozärn Chardonnay retails at around R120 per bottle. Stockists include Wine at the Mill, Wine Concepts Kloof, Vino Pronto, Hermanus Wine Village, Roeland Liquors and Caroline’s Fine wine.