Ava Marie Chardonnay 2018

95+ points, “This is a classically structured Ava Marie 2018 with crystalline tangy acids, generous green and yellow citrus fruit flesh, intricate mineral flintiness and an intensity of lemon and green melon candy on the long, persistent, noticeably concentrated finish. Less steely, malic and severe in style than the impressively taut 2017, but certainly carries on the Ava Marie tradition of freshness, bright acidity and wonderfully focused purity. Drink now and over the next 10-15+ years.” – Greg Sherwood MW

Craig and Anne Wessels’ wines have now developed cult status. Immense quality combined with very low volumes have resulted in huge demand. The grapes for this Chardonnay come from some of the oldest vines in Hemel-en-Aarde, they are then crafted into the nectar before you within a mixture of old barrels, amphoras and stainless steel. Crisp and fresh with notes of oatmeal and green fruit, this is a truly thrilling wine from an “outstanding” (Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate). Don’t miss out

When Craig Wessels isn’t working for his animation and design agency or directing films, he and his wife Anne can be found making Restless River wines on their tiny farm in Hemel-en-Aarde, located near the fishing village of Hermanus. They bought the only plot of land they could afford and have slowly transformed it into a 5-star rated winery in Platter’s guide. Armed with the coolest climate on the cape, self-taught confidence, tattoos, biker T-shirts, a couple of amphoras from Tuscany and a restless drive to experiment and learn, the Wessels family are producing some of South Africa’s most exciting wines.