2015 Capensis Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
The 2015 Chardonnay begins with a structured nose of Meyer lemon and a soft mintiness to the aromatics, with subtle oak edges, underripe golden apples and corn kernels with mild brown baking spices. The palate shows pomaceous fruit and expresses flavors of subtly spiced pears sprayed with lemon juice. Medium-bodied, the Chardonnay ends with a balanced, lingering finish that reminds me of Margret River Chardonnay, with a touch of saltiness on the back end. 1,000 cases made.
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Average Score
Neal Martin
Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate
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The 2015 Capensis comes from the Jackson family of Verité fame and debuted with great fanfare a couple of years ago. This latest release was matured for 10 months in 100% French oak, 41% of it new. It has a well-defined bouquet with finely integrated oak; scents of honeysuckle, beeswax and dried pineapple blossom in the glass over two hours. The palate is well balanced, the oak neatly integrated with a slightly nutty, creamy, orange-peel-tinged finish that feels reassuringly long. I get the feeling this is a more "toned-down" Capensis compared to its previous releases, and restraint suits it well. The only caveat is the price and the stiff competition from high-performing South African Chardonnays.