2023 Radford Dale Vinum Chardonnay, Stellenbosch

12% alcohol. Lovely aromatics here: fruit-focused with pear, pineapple and citrus, showing nice restraint. The palate has lovely delicacy with ripe but fresh pear fruit as well as some lemon and a subtle twist of almond and hazelnut. Such finesse here: pure and well balanced.

94 points Jamie Goode, Wine Anorak

Radford Dale was founded in Stellenbosch in 1998 by Ben Radford and British born winemaker Alex Dale, with a philosophy centred on site, restrained winemaking and freshness rather than sheer power. Dale brought European sensibilities to the Cape, becoming an important voice in South Africa’s move towards more precise, less heavily worked wines. The Vinum range is intended to deliver that philosophy without the serious price tag of the estate’s top bottlings.

Stellenbosch has abundant sunshine, but proximity to False Bay brings cooling maritime breezes that are particularly useful for Chardonnay. Vinum is made in a fresher, more restrained style, with the 2023 balancing ripe Cape fruit against citrusy acidity and subtle savoury complexity. There is enough texture to make it interesting, but thankfully no great wall of oak between you and the Chardonnay.

Bright straw with white peach, nectarine and pear followed by lemon and grapefruit. Fresh almond and a little cashew add depth, with citrus blossom and a faint flinty note underneath. The palate is supple and juicy, carrying stone fruit through the middle before lively acidity tightens the shape. Lemon peel, almond and gentle mineral notes leave a clean, savoury finish.

Cape Malay spiced prawns with lime and coriander would be terrific with the combination of fruit and freshness. Grilled kingfish, scallops with sweetcorn, roast cauliflower with tahini or crab cakes with lemon and herbs can take dinner in completely different directions. There is enough generosity here for spice, but enough acidity to keep everyone coming back to the glass. Cellaring: Drink now to 2031.