Crystallum, under the meticulous stewardship of brothers Peter-Allan and Andrew Finlayson, has firmly established itself as a vanguard of South African fine wine. Their 'The Agnes' Chardonnay is a seminal expression from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, a region renowned for its cool-climate viticulture and profound suitability for Burgundian varietals.
The vineyards benefit from maritime influences, with ancient, mineral-rich soils contributing to the wine's distinctive character. Crystallum's winemaking philosophy for 'The Agnes' typically involves minimal intervention, often employing natural fermentation and judicious use of older oak barrels to foster complexity and texture without obscuring the pristine fruit and inherent minerality. The 2024 vintage, while nascent, promises the hallmark precision, vibrant acidity, and layered elegance that define this esteemed Chardonnay, offering a glimpse into its evolving potential.
Tasting notes
While the 2024 vintage of Crystallum 'The Agnes' Chardonnay is exceptionally young, early indications suggest a wine of remarkable purity and potential. Expect a luminous pale gold hue. The aromatic profile is anticipated to unfold with delicate notes of green apple, citrus zest, and white peach, underpinned by a subtle minerality and a hint of toasted almond from its careful oak maturation. On the palate, it is poised to deliver a vibrant acidity and a precise, linear structure, culminating in a long, saline finish. This vintage promises to evolve beautifully, revealing greater depth and complexity with bottle age.