93

From the first sniff, the 2020 Deconstructed Kogelberg Sandstone CY76 Chardonnay is immensely profound and swinging for the fences. It's this year's best Chardonnay and is the most impressive of the Kershaw lineup. Opening with layers of citrus and oak, checking all of the boxes, this beautiful Chardonnay has that special 'It' factor. With just-ripe, succulent layers of spicy citrus and yellow apple essence overflowing with elegance and finesse, this is Kershaw's most focused Chardonnay ever made. Medium-bodied and exuding precision and finesse, Chardonnay trophy hunters must seek this out and put it in their cellar. The palate explodes with impeccable layers of freshness and vibrancy with fantastic laser precision. I'd put this up against Burgundy any day. Only 497 bottles were produced, which were wild fermented and aged in 67% new French oak. My only complaint is that only three barrels were made for the entire world to share. Drink date: 2024-2040. Score - 98. (Anthony Mueller, robertparker.com, Dec. 29, 2023)