A World Class Chardonnay from South Africa

On a recent Thursday afternoon, the wine department at Bevy's Liquor World had the pleasure of meeting superstars Jean-Claude and Carolyn Martin and tasting their Creation Wines. The wines of South Africa have wowed us year after year, but it is rare for us to taste a portfolio from any wine region, and bring in every bottle that we are shown. The vineyards of Creation Wines are situated in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, in a valley called Hemel-en-Aarde. The literal translation from Afrikaans means Heaven-and-Earth. There is no monoculture here. When they planted their first vines in 1994, they took a significant lead in environmental custodianship. 

2021 Creation Wines Chardonnay is from Cape South Coast. Hand harvested, and barrel fermented in 10% new oak and 90% second and third fill French oak. Aromas of citrus peel, pear and peach with fresh minerality and a nuance of spice. The mouthfeel is decidedly Burgundian, with a bright beam of citrus, yellow apple, wet stones, and spices on the beautifully integrated structure.

A simply perfect example of world class level wine from South Africa, that drinks like $60-$100 white burgundies. An incredible value!

~ Michael Rodriguez, Wine Specialist