Exceptional by ASDA Chardonnay Western Cape 2023
Dry medium-bodied white wine. It follows a modern, fruit-driven style with moderate oak influence. · ASDA 'Exceptional' Range (Retailer Brand). Produced for ASDA by a large-scale South African contract winery like Spier or Distell. It represents ASDA’s premium private-label tier, focusing on sourcing varietals from established regions for high-value quality.
Vintage: 2023. This was a challenging vintage in Western Cape due to high rainfall and early humidity, requiring careful vineyard management. For budget-to-mid-tier whites, it results in fresh, high-acid profiles for early consumption.
Type
Dry medium-bodied white wine. It follows a modern, fruit-driven style with moderate oak influence.
Producer
ASDA 'Exceptional' Range (Retailer Brand). Produced for ASDA by a large-scale South African contract winery like Spier or Distell. It represents ASDA’s premium private-label tier, focusing on sourcing varietals from established regions for high-value quality.
Country
South Africa. The country is a bridge between Old and New World styles, known for its Wine of Origin system and diverse coastal climates influenced by the Benguela Current.
Vintage
2023. This was a challenging vintage in Western Cape due to high rainfall and early humidity, requiring careful vineyard management. For budget-to-mid-tier whites, it results in fresh, high-acid profiles for early consumption.
Region & Appellation
Western Cape WO (Wine of Origin). This is a broad geographical unit in South Africa, covering major districts like Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Swartland, allowing for flexibility in blending to achieve a consistent profile.
Grape Varieties
100% Chardonnay. This variety in the Western Cape tends toward tropical and citrus notes, often showing a balance between European elegance and New World ripeness.
Color & Appearance
Bright straw gold. Clear and brilliant with medium intensity and silver highlights, showing moderate viscosity signifying standard alcohol levels.
Aroma Profile
Primary aromas of lemon zest, green apple, and ripe pear. Subtle secondary notes of vanilla pod and toasted bread from light oak contact, with a hint of white blossom.
Tasting Notes
The palate is crisp and refreshing with a bright citric attack. The mid-palate offers rounded stone fruit flavors supported by a touch of creaminess, finished by a clean, zesty acidity.
Flavor Profile
Predominantly Meyer lemon, nectarine, and a hint of melon. A delicate touch of baking spice and cedar emerges on the short-to-medium finish.
Body & Texture
Medium-bodied. The texture is smooth with a light oily sensation, balanced by a lean, refreshing structure.
Acidity & Tannins
High, bright acidity that provides lift and freshness. Tannins are absent as this is a white wine with minimal skin contact.
Sweetness Level
Dry. Residual sugar is likely between 2-4 g/L, making it crisp without perceived sweetness.
Alcohol Content
Typically 13.0% to 13.5%. The alcohol provides enough weight without creating a 'hot' or burning sensation.
Aging & Oak
Short-term aging (3-6 months) using a combination of stainless steel to preserve fruit and older French oak staves or barrels to add texture and spice.
Food Pairings
Roasted chicken with lemon, grilled white fish, creamy pasta dishes, or mild hard cheeses like white cheddar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled at 8-10°C (46-50°F). Use a standard white wine glass. Decanting not required. Drink now through 2025.
Price Range
£7.00 - £9.00 ($9 - $12 USD). Excellent value for a premium supermarket offering.
Quality Assessment
86-88 points. A high-quality supermarket tier wine that offers professional balance and varietal typicity for the price.
Production Methods
Machine harvested in the cool of the night to preserve acidity. Cold fermentation in stainless steel, with a portion undergoing malolactic fermentation for creaminess.
Terroir
A blend of soils (granite, sandstone, shale) from across the Western Cape. Mediterranean climate with coastal breezes that prevent the Chardonnay grapes from over-ripening.
History & Heritage
The 'Exceptional' range was launched by ASDA to compete with Coles/Sainsbury luxury labels, rebranding from the older 'Extra Special' line to emphasize sourcing quality.
Interesting Facts
The label features a classic Cape Dutch homestead illustration, a nod to the architectural heritage of South African wine estates dating back to the 17th century.
Cellaring Potential
Low. This is designed for immediate enjoyment and is at its peak within 1-2 years of the vintage date.
Similar Wines
Concha y Toro Casillero del Diablo Chardonnay, Lindeman's Bin 65, or Louis Latour Macon-Village for a slightly drier French comparison.