Here`s a wine that will appeal to those who appreciate a creamy and fleshed-out expression of the Burgundian grape. It`s full-bodied but remains elegant all the while. The Lismore 2023 Greyton Estate Reserve Chardonnay offers a softly textured approach with aromas of lemon meringue, apricot and breakfast cream. It`s aromatic intensity is very nicely contained. Winemaking embraces an oxidative approach, with lees aging in 500-liter barrels (with 25% new oak). This accounts for the generosity of the wine, but it also makes for a pretty contrast to the wine`s mineral side, which reflects the decomposed shale soils found at the foothills of the Sonderend Mountain Range, where cool February temperatures mean harvest is three to four weeks later than other regions. Lismore`s signature style shows a distinctively citrusy note, and you definitely taste that on the close. This is a 4,352-bottle release. 94 points

The 2023 Chardonnay Reserve comes from the estate. The juice was oxidatively handled and aged on the lees for 11 months in 500-liter barrels. This has a very complex bouquet with wild honey, orange pith and fine mineralite. It just soars from the glass. The palate is well balanced with fine delineation. It’s tensile, focused and vibrant, with a precise and persistent finish. If there`s a better Chardonnay from the Cape this vintage, I haven’t tasted it. 96 points