2024 Backsberg Smuggled Vines Chardonnay, Franschhoek, W.O. Paarl, South Africa

100% Chardonnay with rich tropical fruit, creamy notes, and citrus elements like grapefruit and lemon, often balanced by nutty hints of cashew or butterscotch and a notable chalky, mineral finish from the region's terroir.  Hints of vanilla, boasting a complex nose of honeyed apple, wrapped up in a vibrant acidity, and a silky finish. 

At its heart, Backsberg’s philosophy remains to provide enjoyment to a broad range of wine lovers by sustainably crafting world-class quality wines. As South Africa’s first certified carbon-neutral winery (circa 2006), Backsberg Wines are crafted with the utmost of care; for the employee, the product, the land as well as our broader community.

The estates history is rooted in the Back family. The winery was founded by Charles Louis Back, a Jewish refugee from Lithuania, in the early 1900s. The business was later passed down through the family. For over two decades, Alicia Rechner has been the winemaker at Backsberg, known for her technical and precise approach. She joined the winery in 2002 after having worked in Europe and Australia. Rechner describes herself as a "technical winemaker who prefers the chemistry to be spot on," and emphasizes producing wines with a focus on drinkability and balance.