Van Loggerenberg Wines “Break a Leg” Chardonnay

STELLENBOSCH, SOUTH AFRICA |  2021

I first met Lukas Van Loggerenberg at Le Midi on a quiet evening when his Illinois importer introduced his lineup of exceptional wines. Each bottle left me in awe, showcasing Lukas’ remarkable winemaking talent and reinforcing my passion for promoting South Africa’s incredible wines. Beyond his craft, Lukas impressed me as a person - an imposing figure with a gentle smile and hearty laugh. His care for people seems to reflect in his wines, which are crafted with the same respect and thoughtfulness.

Lukas’ journey into winemaking is as inspiring as the wines themselves. Growing up in South Africa’s Breedekloof Valley, he studied viticulture and oenology before a life-changing moment in France’s Loire Valley. A 1989 Cabernet Franc revealed wine's artistic potential, inspiring Lukas to create his own legacy. Since founding Van Loggerenberg Wines, he has received international acclaim for crafting wines naturally, emphasizing purity and texture. His 2021 "Break a Leg" Chardonnay is a great representation of this philosophy balancing fresh acidity with mineral-driven complexity. If you are a fan of Chablis, you will fall in love with this selection.

The name "Break a Leg" reflects Lukas’ perseverance, born out of his inaugural 2016 vintage, when he overcame knee surgeries while crafting his first wines. Lukas’s sense of humor shines in the label as it features a leg brace and a contemplative figure, an emblem of Lukas’ determination and tribute to his South African roots, further highlighted by the crane and starling imagery. This Chardonnay delivers vibrant aromas of lemon and sea breeze, with a palate of crushed rocks, peach skin, and lemon peel, enhanced by oatmeal and wheatgrass notes. Unwooded yet textured, it highlights Stellenbosch’s granite and clay terroir after eight months in stainless steel. Pair this elegant wine with west coast oysters or charred white asparagus for an unforgettable experience.