Stony Brook Vineyards “Lyle” Blanc de Blancs
Franschoek, South Africa | 2017
Back in February of 2018, my friend Tucker and I decided to take the 20-hour flight from the bone-chilling winter of Chicago to the other side of the equator where summer was in full swing. I had been introduced to South African wines before and was curious about what the smaller-production winemakers were doing, so I set up a few appointments mostly focused in the cooler climate appellations such as Elgin and Franschoek and began the journey. Arriving with modest expectations, I was not at all prepared to fall madly in love with the country and its artisanal wine community, but I returned to Chicago with all of the ammunition I needed to sing the praises of South African wines, and I have not looked back since.
Stony Brook Vineyards was one of the stops we made on our tour and to say I was impressed is an understatement. Even Tucker (who is not in the wine trade and whose favorite question to every winemaker was “and how many wine barrels do YOU have?”) also left in awe and with a new appreciation for these wines.
Greeted by the lovely McNaught family (during harvest, mind you) and shown around the property laden with most exquisite gum trees, I was then introduced to their blanc de blancs Cap Classique cuvée called “Lyle” and I was immediately transported from the southern hemisphere to the far northern reaches of Champagne, France. You have to see it to believe it but trust me when I tell you that this vintage dated sparkling chardonnay has dressed to thoroughly impress, and for $30 it’s a phenomenal bargain for such high-quality winemaking! You too may never look at South African wines the same again.
The “Lyle” 2017 is a stunning mix of vinous richness combined with pure energy. After spending 4 years on the lees, the mousse has tamed to the point that it simply lifts the fruits in the glass and accentuates the salty minerality without being too overbearing. From the front to the back palate it undulates with waves of pear tart, geranium, and chalk. I highly recommend pairing this beauty with, well, everything really. It’s a good problem to have!
$29.99 Bottle