Bouchard Finlayson Crocodile's Lair Chardonnay is a delicious white wine made from grapes grown in the cool climate region of Walker Bay, South Africa. This Chardonnay is a pale golden color with aromas of lemon, vanilla, and toasted oak. On the palate, this wine is creamy with flavors of pear, citrus, and a hint of spice. It has a smooth texture and a long, crisp finish. The name Crocodile's Lair comes from the vineyard's proximity to a nearby river where these creatures make their home. This wine is perfect to pair with fish, seafood, or creamy pasta dishes.

Tasting Notes

Sleek and refined, a most enjoyable spicy lemon drop aroma announces white peach, nectarine and pear on the palate. A refreshing salinity graces a lasting finish.

About the Winery

Bouchard Finlayson serves as a family affair and a symbol of collaboration. Established by Peter Finlayson in 1989, the winery stemmed from the partnership of the founder with Paul Bouchard, a renowned Burgundian winemaker. Bouchard Finlayson is a place that combines the elements of the winemaking heritage of the old world and the innovative inventions of recent times. The estate of the winery lies in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley of South Africa.

Since the beginning, Peter pioneered the plantation and growth of the Pinot Noir grape variety in the region. He was responsible for bringing in and introducing Nebbiolo and Sangiovese in the vineyards of South Africa. Nonetheless, both Paul and Peter had a dedication and love for crafting and developing unique wines that express the characteristics and quality of their coastal terroirs. Their alliance and the hard work and effort they put behind the winery helped Bouchard Finlayson earn and enjoy the reputation and fame it has to this day. The passion they shared for Pinot Noir allowed them to transform the virgin soil of the area into a kind suitable for the vineyards. It laid the foundation for the extensive growth of the grapevines and the development of the winery’s cellar.

The workers in the 25-hectare vineyards of Bouchard Finlayson follow a meticulous system and technique of planting the grapevines. They respect the time-honoured winemaking principles from Burgundy. Such practices allow the produced wines to express the refreshing maritime climate of the region. The winery believes that every aspect of the vineyard gets reflected in the drinks. Thus, they take enormous care of their lands and even the harvest process. The staff select and use only those grapes that achieve the desired standard of maturity. Overall, Bouchard Finlayson deems the time consuming and labour extensive to be worth it.

https://www.bouchardfinlayson.co.za

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