Checkmate Chardonnay 'Queen Taken' 2021

This wine is 100% Chardonnay. The varietal composition in 2021 was a mix of the original Dekleva clone and recently planted old Wente clones, with the latter adding minerality and complexity. It remains consistent in offering aromas and flavours of pear, subtle ginger, and wet stones. The palate has a creamy texture on the mid-palate, wet stone minerality, and a savoury, vibrant undercurrent, suggesting a textural firmness and exceptional ageability. The winemaker's restoration of the vineyard has resulted in a leaner, fresher wine with lower alcohol, intended to be tighter and more Burgundian in style. Fifty percent of the wine was wild fermented, and all of it was barrel-aged in 58% new French oak for 16 months. 

Accolades

• John Schreiner - 98 points

• Anthony Gismondi - 96 points

• Wine Spectator - 92 points

• Wine Enthusiast - 92 points

Food Pairing 

Suggested pairings include rich fish like halibut, poultry such as chicken and turkey, and creamy pasta dishes. The wine's richness, acidity, and minerality make it a beautiful match for soft, creamy cheeses like Brie and triple-cream. You could also consider pan-seared scallops or herb-crusted halibut.

This pairing highlights the wine's depth and character.