Iona Monopole Kloof Chardonnay 2021 Bottle size: 750ml

'Most vibrant & lowest sugar of the chardonnays, reflecting silica quartz-dominated soils &, being unirrigated, resilience in drier 2018 vintage. Lively acidity anchors fruit, creamy lees undertone. Complementary new oak (now 38%) helps raise the bar on 2017.' – Platter's Guide, 4.5* (94/100)

'Planted on quartz soils in 2007, this is a rare dryland vineyard at Iona. Despite being north facing, and getting more afternoon sun, this is tauter and more focused than the Fynbos Chardonnay in 2018. Spicy, savoury and fresh with lots of toasty wood and a fresh, tangy finish. Drink 2021-24.' – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2020, 93/100

'The 2018 Chardonnay Kloof was matured in one-third new oak for 12 months without lees-stirring. It has a low-key opening on the nose and demands coaxing, eventually offering light scents of white flowers and honeysuckle, but it doesn’t really let go. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity. The 38% new oak is a little prominent toward the finish, so afford this a couple of years to fully integrate. A well-crafted Chardonnay. Drink 2022-2029.' – Neal Martin, Vinous, 90/100 (Apr 2021)

'The wine from the Kloof Vineyard is totally unique to South Africa. Pure fruit (soft white pear and bright limey citrus), razor sharp acidity and well-judged oak result in a wine that is precise, intricate yet layered, focussed and fine with significant ageing potential. It has beautiful oyster shell minerality, a slight saline note, a long finish and good weight on the back palate.' – Winemaker