Jordan Winery Nine Yards Chardonnay 2010

Stellenbosch is the most important region in South Africa for the production of quality wine, due, in the main, to its great diversity of soils and its prime location surrounded by mountains.  It is here where Gary and Kathy Jordan, a geologist and an economist, have been producing wines since 1993, in an old farmhouse with a history going back over 300 years ago.  However, its recent history dates from 1982, when Gary's parents bought the 146 hectare property and embarked on an extensive replanting programme, specializing in the classic French varieties suited to the different soils and slopes.

The winery's philosophy is to produce personal wines, which combine the accessibility and the fruity power of New World wines with the elegance of the Old World .

Appearance

Pale golden yellow hue with lemony overtones.

Nose

Good intensity, with very pronounced aromas of tropical fruit which blend in well with floral notes against a creamy, elegant backdrop derived from the French oak (smoked and toasted aromas).

Palate

Full flavoured, fat yet fresh, with an excellent balance of fruit and wood. Retronasal aromas of butter and fine pastries. Good persistence and a final touch of citrus.

Comment

This Chardonnay single varietal has the curious name of "Nine Yards", a play on the English expression "the whole nine yards", which means that the Jordans "went all out" in the production of this wine.

This white from 20 year old vineyards, aged on the lees in French oak barrels for 12 months, is one of the best barrel-fermented single varietals that the New World has to offer.  The wine is creamy, meaty and fruity and is nicely wrapped up in pleasant, fine sensations brought by the noble oak. This white shows a certain complexity, is very gastronomic, and recommended for fans of Chardonnay who want to explore the many facets of this variety produced in other climes.

Recommended with chicken with a tahini and lemon sauce.