What to Drink: Danie de Wet Limestone Hill Chardonnay 2006
Chardonnay is so strongly associated with the toasty, bourbony flavors of oak barrels, few recognize its flavors when it’s made crisp and clean in stainless steel. This South African beauty is crafted in the model of the original French unoaked chardonnays, like chablis, pouilly-fuissé or macon-villages. Crisp apple and pear flavors are accented with smells of macadamia nuts and fresh bread. But, despite the absence of butter and dessert spice notes, this wine’s textural richness screams chardonnay, bathing the palate in liquid custard.
At nearly 15 percent alcohol, this is Limestone Hill chard — $11.99 at Pennsylvania state specialty stores — is a great white for a chilly night, more apt for serving with risotto than with a salad. Try it with white meats, like pork and chicken, or firm-fleshed fish, like snapper or striped bass. It’s viscous texture and understated flavors call for rich recipes that aren’t heavily seasoned.
Image, wine.co.za