Ataraxia 2016 Chardonnay (Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge)

This is a stunning wine, with superb complexity and great balance between the ripe fruit characteristics and the lightly toasty, sweet spice elements. Notes of yellow melon, sweet orange, honeysuckle and almond paste are rich and satisfying, but by no means fat or overdone. It's medium in weight, with bright acidity and a pronounced minerality that lends focus and definition. The finish is fresh and vibrant, starting with crisp citrus flavors that evolve into a spiced orange-tea tone before landing on a succulent tone of cedar-grilled apple. Lauren Buzzeo