Product Description
She arrived in South Africa seeking the ‘Californian dream’, and bought a former dairy farm in Greyton on the Western Cape. When O’Keefe was starting her wine career and considering which vines to grow in the then-untried Greyton area. The pioneer soon found that the barren mountain-top shale soils produced exceptional wines, not least the Syrah, which has gained recognition from Robert Parker in his list of the 50 Best New Releases from 2015, and was highly praised by Neal Martin of the Wine Advocate with 94 points. The Lismore Estate Vineyards are set on one of the most beautiful sites in the wine world. O’Keefe has no neighbouring vineyards – she is a lone trailblazer in this area. Very few people have made the trek to this remote winery. O’Keefe is inspired by Côte Rôtie and Condrieu producers from the Rhône in France –Christine Vernay in particular and, of course, her pioneering father, Georges Vernay. The wines are true expressions of this unique terroir and its equally unique winemaker.
A stunning example of a restrained, cool climate Chardonnay. The bouquet shows intense citrus aromas and classic soft fruits, jasmine and walnut are layered with honey and vanilla notes. The palate is beautifully balanced with a refreshing, crisp acidity and a distinct minerality. Concentrated and refined, with a crisp, clean citrus finish.