Glenelly Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2021

Region and Vineyards

Located in the Simonsberg ward of Stellenbosch, Glenelly Estate enjoys an ideal climate for premium winemaking. The region benefits from a Mediterranean climate with warm days and cool nights, influenced by the Atlantic Ocean breezes. These conditions ensure a long growing season that allows the grapes to develop optimal flavor and acidity.

This vintage was marked by unique weather conditions. After a hot and dry post-harvest period in 2020, a wet winter followed, which, while not excessively cold, allowed the vines to enter dormancy. Bud break occurred 14 days later than usual, and the moderate temperatures during flowering and fruit set resulted in lush canopies and extended ripening. This led to well-balanced fruit with excellent aromatic complexity and natural acidity.

Winemaking

The Glenelly Estate Reserve Chardonnay is crafted with meticulous care, emphasizing natural techniques to highlight the purest expression of the Chardonnay grape. After harvesting, the grapes were whole-bunch pressed to retain freshness and aromatics.

The juice was briefly settled before being transferred to 500-liter blond-toasted barrels, a mix of new and second-fill French oak. Fermentation occurred naturally at varying temperatures, followed by 10 months of maturation on the lees, with occasional stirring to enhance texture and depth. The total barrel aging period was 11 months, creating a wine of balance, richness, and precision.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright and crisp, with a pale gold hue.
• Aroma: A complex bouquet of quince, citrus peel, lime, and subtle notes of butterscotch caramel, with hints of pear drop adding depth.
• Palate: Lush and vibrant, featuring sharp citrus and mineral flavors that lead to a long, round, and textured finish.

Did You Know?

Glenelly Estate was established in 2003 by Madame May de Lencquesaing, former owner of Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande in Bordeaux. Her vision was to create wines that combine the elegance of French tradition with the power of Stellenbosch terroir.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled lobster with lemon butter: The wine’s citrus and mineral profile beautifully complements the richness of the lobster.
• Roast chicken with herb stuffing: Its creamy texture and sharp acidity balance the savory flavors of the dish.
• Goat cheese salad with pear and walnuts: The wine’s vibrant fruit and butterscotch nuances enhance the sweetness of the pears and the creaminess of the cheese.
• Pan-seared scallops with a citrus glaze: The bright citrus flavors mirror the dish’s freshness while adding depth.

History of Glenelly

Glenelly Estate was founded in 2003 by May de Lencquesaing, a Bordeaux wine icon and former owner of the esteemed Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande. Driven by her belief in the exceptional potential of Stellenbosch, May brought her decades of experience and a passion for winemaking to the Cape.

The estate was previously a fruit farm, but May transformed it into a world-class vineyard and winery. Under her leadership, Glenelly became known for its commitment to sustainability and producing wines that express the terroir of Simonsberg. The winery building, an architectural marvel, blends seamlessly with the natural landscape and houses state-of-the-art facilities designed to craft wines of unparalleled quality.

May de Lencquesaing’s vision was not only to create exceptional wines but also to leave a lasting legacy by fostering South Africa’s prominence in the global wine industry. Today, her family continues to oversee the estate, honoring her legacy of excellence.

Region and Vineyards

Located in the Simonsberg sub-region of Stellenbosch, Glenelly benefits from a Mediterranean climate with cooling breezes from False Bay. This unique microclimate ensures slow and even grape ripening, resulting in wines with concentration and balance.

The estate spans 128 hectares, with 65 hectares under vine, primarily planted with Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, alongside Chardonnay and Syrah. The soils are predominantly decomposed granite with clay components, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the mineral complexity of the wines.

Glenelly’s sustainable vineyard practices, including cover cropping and integrated pest management, are a testament to their commitment to preserving the environment and crafting wines that embody the purity of the land.

Wine Range of Glenelly

Glenelly’s portfolio showcases both red and white wines with a focus on Bordeaux blends and Syrah. Their flagship wine, Lady May, is a Bordeaux-style blend known for its elegance, age-worthiness, and refined structure. The Glass Collection, named after May’s passion for glass art, offers varietal expressions such as Syrah, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon that are approachable yet complex.

The estate’s wines consistently receive high acclaim, reflecting Glenelly’s dedication to meticulous winemaking and the expression of Stellenbosch’s terroir.

Did you know?

May de Lencquesaing’s passion for glass art is evident throughout Glenelly Estate. The winery features a glass museum, showcasing pieces from her personal collection, including works by René Lalique and Salvador Dalí. This unique aspect of Glenelly highlights the fusion of art, history, and winemaking.