In the 2024 Platter’s Guide, Elgin trailblazer Paul Clüver Family Wines scored a prestigious five-star rating for their Estate Chardonnay 2021. This recognition comes in the Guide’s 44th year, where over 8,000 wines were scrutinized from 900 producers, with only 226 wines achieving the coveted five-star status.
Paul Clüver Jnr, MD of the winery, lauds Platter’s for its discernment in highlighting exceptional Cape wines. He emphasizes the significance of the five-star rating, especially in the thriving Chardonnay category, attributing its success to both local and international acclaim. Having pioneered Elgin’s commercial Chardonnay vineyards 36 years ago, Clüver sees this accolade as a testament to their commitment to Chardonnay’s excellence in Elgin and South Africa.
Crafted from vineyards aged over 20 years and situated at elevations between 320m and 385m above sea level, the Estate Chardonnay 2021 reflects the unique terroir of Bokkeveld shale and clay soils. The winemaking process involves cold storage for the harvested grapes overnight, followed by whole-bunch pressing and fermentation in French oak barrels. With minimal lees stirring over nine months, the wine retains its vibrancy and vitality.
Andries Burger, the cellarmaster, praises the near-perfect 2021 vintage in Elgin, characterized by optimal growing conditions. The cooler temperatures during spring and summer resulted in ideal flavor development and maintained high natural acidities in the grapes. Harvesting occurred between mid-February and March, ensuring prime quality grapes cooled overnight for processing, ranging between 21-23.5 ° Brix.
Describing the 2021 Estate Chardonnay as quintessential Elgin and distinctively Paul Clüver, Burger notes its textured, multi-layered profile with a core of invigorating acidity that allows fruit and floral nuances to shine. He anticipates its evolution into a more exquisite state over the next decade, promising a truly enriching Chardonnay experience.
