Storm Wines: A seriously good Chardonnay

It’s the rare producer that’s equally talented in both colours, yet Hannes Storm’s penchant for fine Burgundy and regular trips to the Cote d’Or is evident in his wines’ finessed vivacity, which are more often than not underpinned by superior notes of stone, sea-spray and fine spice. Across the range, these are grown up wines that put a smile on your face. One such wine that we are absolutely loving right now is the Vrede Chardonnay 2022 – a truly coastal white that mixes salty tension and freshness, with unbuttoned, sun-kissed New World freedom. Here, your money goes a long way, at a hair over £30 per bottle in bond, or just £39.40 inc. VAT per bottle. Were these grapes grown in almost any other country, you’d expect to pay double. This fantastic Chardonnay is the perfect white to enjoy in the long spring evenings and throughout summer. Stock up now while stocks last.

"I love the nose on this – it's so vivid and mouth-watering. Dried apricots. Peaches, peach skin, quince. So much texture! Like ruched silk. So many layers. Dusty, intense, yuzu and fragrant. It reminds me, somehow, of an apple orchard – the freshness, the sweetness, light and unshowy beauty." – 17.5pts, Tamlyn Currin, JancisRobinson.com

"With a fresh and mineral-driven nose, the 2022 Vrede Chardonnay opens with gorgeous lemon pastry cream essences, oak spices and hints of yellow apples and Meyer lemon. Medium-bodied, the wine expands on the palate with surprising weight and freshness that remains constant as it uncoils and opens with elegance and finesse that has me coming back for more. Lingering with succulently sweet citrus and yellow apple tones, this beautiful Chardonnay ends with a spicy, food-friendly finish. Chardonnay lovers, you'll want to add this to your cellar. Just under 3,100 bottles were produced after resting for eight months in 30% new French oak." – 94+ pts, The Wine Advocate

View the full Storm Wines range.