Handford Wines

Chamonix is a substantial 300 ha estate in the trendy Franschhoek Valley of the Western Cape. Only a short drive from the better-known Stellenbosch region, the pulling power of Franschhoek lies in its pretty setting and the fact that it’s emerging as the culinary capital of the Cape winelands, with a good spread of high-end eateries. The wines are made by German oenologist Gottfried Mocke, who has been winemaker at the estate since 2001. Quality is very good indeed, with the distinctive Chardonnays the stand-out wines of the range, having won the Chardonnay du Monde Competition in both 2004 and 2005. Gottfried's philosophy of concentrating on traditional winemaking and focusing on harnessing the site specific qualities of each vineyard have helped make the Chamonix wines one of the most exciting, value for money ranges in South Africa. A gentle change over to organic winemaking has also contributed towards extra finesse, purity and regional expression. This is a masterful range of reds and whites that includes one of the best Pinot Noirs outside of the Walker Bay region. Winner of the Diners Club Winemaker of the Year Award 2006 for the Category of Chardonnay. What more do you need to know!? This is the most prestigious wine competition in South Africa and certainly a tough one to win. Hats off to winemaker Godfried Mocke and owners Chris and Sonja Hellinger.

The Wine

The 1998 is creamy and deep but retains fresh acids, nutty and complex with a Burgundian style of lemon minerality and the oak is as intergrated as any a Grand Cru I have ever tasted. French wine lovers will die for this one. And it has a name to suit!

Single Bottle: £11.99

In a case of 12: £11.39