This Reserve Chardonnay is made in a Burgundian style that guarantees complexity and aging potential.
The signature style of the Reserve Series
The Reserve series showcases the best of the Alvi's Drift harvest. It's a fusion of their signature style of fresh, primary fruit with a touch of the lush, fermented style of their Icon layer. The bottle label features an image of Alvi's Drift, the low-water bridge Albertus Viljoen van der Mewer built in 1928 to make crossing the Breede River easier and safer.
This family business also owes its name to this. Albertus Viljoen is the official first name of the owner of the South African winery Alvi's Drift in Worcester. The Drift, the low bridge over the Breede River, was built in 1928 by Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe, grandfather of the current Alvi, to provide better access to his family's farm and agricultural lands on the other side of the river. This water crossing quickly became known as Alvi's Drift. The current Van der Merwe generation now uses this name as a tribute to their grandfather for the wines they market.
The vineyards are spread across several different terroirs. The subsoil near the river is primarily alluvial. This rich and fertile soil ensures perfect grape growth. This is where the best Sauvignon Blanc comes from. Shale soil provides excellent drainage for the vineyards' finest red wine. Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinotage thrive in these soils. The terroir, rich in fossilized anthills, plays a significant role in the finest white wines. Alvi's Drift Signature Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and Viognier grapes develop intense fruit flavors thanks to these soils.
What does Alvi's Drift Chardonnay Reserve taste like?
The bunches are pressed whole, and the juice is fermented in wooden barrels. This Alvi's Drift Chardonnay Reserve then matures for eleven months on the fine lees in French oak barrels, with regular battonage. The pale straw color and aroma of peach are already intriguing. The palate is full, balanced, and persistent with hints of citrus, white chocolate, and vanilla pods. Delicious with chicken and duck dishes, firm fish like tuna, and soft cheeses. The wine has great aging potential and will benefit from two to five years of cellaring.
2022
