Yesterday I managed catch up with one of my favourite producers in the Cape, Peter-Allan Finlayson. Over from South Africa for his UK importer’s tasting earlier this week, I took this opportunity to taste through a selection of older vintages of Crystallum and also swop wine trade gossip over some fabulous red and white Burgundies matched with amazing 1 Star Michelin food at the Harwood Arms.

Clay Shales Chardonnay 2013, WO Overberg ~ Pale lemon straw colour, the nose is rich, opulent and fresh with pretty notes of waxy lemons, yellow citrus zest, and smokey incense. The palate is both broad and textural, yet precise and expressive, unfurling layers of lemon curd, lemon cream biscuits, dusty chalky minerality, and tart pineapple pastille fruits. Plenty of tension and no shortage of vibrant acids. Lovely length and developing beautifully in bottle. (Wine Safari Score: 93+/100 Greg Sherwood MW)
Other wines enjoyed over lunch…

Christian Moreau Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos 2007 – 95/100 GS

Domaine Dujac Morey St Denis 1er Cru Mont Luisants Blanc 2011 – 96/100 GS

Savigny Les Beaune Emmanuel Rouget 1997 – 93/100 GS (made by Henri Jayer)

Domaine Jean Marie Fourrier Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Combe aux Moines 2007 – 94/100 GS

George Lignier Bonnes Mares Grand Cru 2002 – 94+/100 GS