2022 Crystallum Ferrum Chardonnay

The 2022 Crystallum Ferrum Chardonnay is an elegant and complex expression from the Walker Bay region of South Africa. Crafted by the Finlayson brothers, Andrew and Peter-Allan, this wine reflects their deep-rooted passion for producing exceptional Burgundian varietals.

Sourced from a single vineyard on Shaw’s Mountain, just outside the Hemel-en-Aarde region, the Ferrum Chardonnay is grown on iron-rich soils that impart unique characteristics to the wine. The grapes are whole-bunch pressed with no enzymes or sulphites added at pressing. After a rough settling overnight, the juice undergoes spontaneous fermentation and ages for 10 months in 300 and 500-litre barrels, 20% of which are new oak.

On the nose, the 2022 Ferrum Chardonnay offers enticing aromas of lime leaf, nori, lemongrass, and a subtle hint of peat-like reduction. The palate is bright and citric, with layers of rich texture and light honey that provide a mouth-coating, sumptuous finish. It's beautifully balanced, with a fine crystalline structure and a plush mouthfeel, and great persistence on the finish.

A seriously good Chardonnay from the Finlayson brothers and a great expression of the unique Shaw’s Mountain region.

95 points
"Ferrum hails from a vineyard just beyond the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge that was grafted over from Sauvignon Blanc to Chardonnay in 2018. Leesy, layered and complex, it combines aromas of oatmeal and patisserie spices with a palate of kelp, oyster shell and lemon zest."
- Tim Atkin MW