Bouchard Finlayson Crocodile's Lair Kaaimansgat Chardonnay 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Kaaimansgat vineyard, also known as the Crocodile’s Lair, is situated in the remote Elandskloof Valley, near Villiersdorp, approximately 80 kilometers from Hermanus in South Africa. This beautiful valley, surrounded by majestic mountains, benefits from its unique altitude of 700 to 800 meters above sea level.

At such elevations, the vineyards experience cool autumn temperatures, which extend the ripening period by nearly a month compared to other Cape Chardonnays. This slower maturation results in smaller berries with thicker skins and greater flavor concentration, while maintaining fresh acidity. The vineyard’s history spans over thirty vintages, cementing its reputation for producing wines of remarkable consistency and character.

The name Kaaimansgat originates from a mispronunciation of the Dutch settler Kwaaiman, further enhancing the wine’s rich connection to its land and history.

Winemaking

The Crocodile’s Lair Chardonnay 2021 is a testament to precision and tradition in winemaking. The hand-harvested grapes undergo fermentation in oak barrels, which begins spontaneously thanks to indigenous yeast populations, allowing for a natural expression of terroir.

The elevation and cool climate contribute to low juice recoveries, but the resulting wine is abundantly flavorful and consistently expressive. To preserve the wine’s freshness, fermentation temperatures are maintained below 25°C. After fermentation, the wine rests in tanks for 2 months before being bottled in January 2022. This careful process ensures the wine maintains its vibrant fruit character and refined texture.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright, pale gold with crystalline clarity.
• Aroma: Beautifully layered aromas of melon and nectarine, underpinned by vibrant notes of lemon zest and baking spices.
• Palate: The wine offers a rich and voluminous texture balanced by a lively, compelling acidity. Flavors of ripe stone fruits and citrus are complemented by subtle oak nuances. The finish is incredibly long and refreshing, promising elegance and depth.

Did You Know?

The Kaaimansgat vineyard’s remote location and elevation make it one of South Africa’s most unique Chardonnay sites. Its cool climate allows for extended ripening, which results in a perfect balance of acidity, freshness, and concentration.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Mild tandoori salmon with coriander chutney: The wine’s rich texture balances the spice and complements the salmon’s savory depth.
• Leafy herb salad with miso dressing: The vibrant acidity of the wine highlights the freshness of the herbs and the umami notes in the dressing.
• Classic avocado Ritz: The creamy texture of the avocado pairs beautifully with the wine’s richness and bright citrus notes.

History of Bouchard Finlayson

Founded in 1989 by Peter Finlayson, one of South Africa’s pioneer winemakers, and Paul Bouchard, a respected Burgundian vintner, Bouchard Finlayson was created with the vision of crafting exceptional cool-climate wines in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Recognizing the potential of this unique terroir, they combined their expertise to produce wines that rival the best in the world.

Peter Finlayson, often called the “Father of Pinot Noir” in South Africa, played a crucial role in introducing and perfecting this varietal in the country. The partnership between Finlayson’s local knowledge and Bouchard’s Burgundian heritage shaped the estate's philosophy: precision, elegance, and respect for the land.

Today, under the ownership of the Tollman family (since 2000), the estate continues to uphold its legacy of producing exceptional wines. The Tollmans’ commitment to sustainable practices and meticulous vineyard management ensures the ongoing success and evolution of the winery.

Region and Vineyards

Bouchard Finlayson is located in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, a cool-climate wine region near Hermanus in Walker Bay, South Africa. The valley’s name, meaning “Heaven and Earth” in Afrikaans, reflects its stunning natural beauty and exceptional conditions for viticulture.

The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean ensures a temperate maritime climate, characterized by cool breezes and significant diurnal temperature variations. This allows for slow and even grape ripening, preserving natural acidity and aromatic complexity—ideal conditions for varietals like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

The vineyards span 22 hectares, planted primarily with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other varietals such as Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Shiraz for their flagship Hannibal blend. The soils consist of decomposed shale with clay deposits, providing excellent drainage while retaining moisture, ensuring vine health and flavor concentration.

The estate also sources fruit from trusted growers in regions like the Kaaimansgat (Crocodile’s Lair) vineyard in the Elandskloof Valley, further expanding their winemaking palette.

Wine Range of Bouchard Finlayson

• Galpin Peak Pinot Noir: The estate’s flagship wine, a cool-climate Pinot Noir offering elegance, vibrant fruit, and depth.
• Missionvale Chardonnay: A refined, complex expression of estate-grown Chardonnay, beautifully textured and balanced.
• Crocodile’s Lair Kaaimansgat Chardonnay: A high-altitude Chardonnay that showcases freshness, minerality, and citrus notes.
• Hannibal: A unique and iconic red blend combining Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Mediterranean varietals, inspired by the wines of northern Italy.
• Sauvignon Blanc: A vibrant, crisp white wine offering tropical and mineral-driven notes.

Did You Know?

Bouchard Finlayson’s name combines its two founders: Paul Bouchard from Burgundy and Peter Finlayson, a South African pioneer in Pinot Noir. The estate’s iconic Hannibal blend pays homage to the Carthaginian general Hannibal, symbolizing the connection between the wines of France and Italy.