Bouchard Finlayson Chrocodile’s Lair Kaaimansgat Chardonnay 2022

Flashes of lime blossom and flint, with a gravelly undercurrent of rye and yeasty complexity. Expansive pear and yellow peach flavours launch off the palate, endlessly gliding on honey infused lemon drops. Unctuous, yet lively throughout. A citrus pith interest anchors the finish, calling for a return to the glass.

The Kaaimansgat or Crocodile’s Lair vineyard is hidden away in a beautiful valley, nestled amongst majestic mountains, just 80 km from Hermanus. It is located 700m above sea level, ripens a month later than other Cape Chardonnays and benefits enormously from cool autumn temperatures. The name of the vineyard is steeped in mystery. According to local lore, escaped slaves from nearby Franschoek under the leadership of ‘Kwaaiman’, first settled here.