Leeu Passant Chardonnay 2023

Grapes from a Helderberg site. Matured for 12 months in 225-litre barrels, 30% new before a further six months in foudre. Citrus, oatmeal, vanilla, and oak spice shape the nose, while the palate delivers concentrated fruit and big acidity, before a pithy finish. This is an imposing wine – tightly wound and intensely flavored. Score – 94. (Christian Eedes, winemag.co.za, March 30, 2025)