Bouchard Finlayson : Missionvale Chardonnay 2018

A fresh and lively South African white wine

The estate

Bouchard Finlayson has become an essential reference among fine South African wines. The famous Burgundy estate, Bouchard et Fils, partnered with the oenologist Peter Finlayson. Both working towards a common goal, the knowledgeable partners produce fine wines that express the nuances of the great South African terroirs.

Situated on the edge of the ocean in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, also called Paradise on Earth, the estate reigns over 25 hectares of vines that rest on clay slopes. This terroir and the climatic conditions are conducive to the two flagship grape varieties of Burgundy, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Unanimously recognised for the quality of its wines, the Bouchard Finlayson estate perfectly blends the identity of South Africa's terroirs with Burgundian know-how.

The vineyard

Bouchard Finlayson's Missionvale Chardonnay 2018 is a Western Cape wine made from vineyards located in the Hemel-en-Aarde, a valley renowned for its mosaic of soils. The name of this cuvée refers to the Mission Hospital, built on the estate in the early 19th century.

Vinification and ageing

Only the highest quality grapes are selected and included in the making of this wine. Manual harvesting followed by pressing without crushing. Overnight settling before fermentation in amphorae (10%) and French oak barrels. The 9-month ageing period in barrels is supplemented by an additional 2 months in vats before bottling.

The blend

Chardonnay (100%).

Bouchard Finlayson's Missionvale Chardonnay 2018: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Rich with a beautiful minerality, this South African white wine blends intense fruit (peach, fresh grapefruit) and spice (ginger, nutmeg) flavours with refreshing lemon notes.

Food and wine pairing

This Western Cape wine will complement scallops served with French celeriac, whole Cape salmon or freshly-shucked oysters.