Shannon Vineyards & Wines
Elgin Oscar Browne Chardonnay 2022
Reviews
The Wine Advocate 92/100
What I like most about the Shannon Vineyards 2022 Elgin Oscar Browne Chardonnay is that it has an especially crunchy edge with a combination of natural acidity and primary fruit. I am reminded of the waxy part of an apple peel. The wine opens to a deep golden straw color with aromas of pear and pastry cream at its core. Subtle background notes of toasted nut and cinnamon also play a role. This wine represents a blend of three different clones, and production is 3,000 bottles.
The Shannon Vineyards brand exists in South Africa and the world but trades as Downes Family Vineyard in the United States due to a copyright conflict with Shannon Ridge in Lake County, California. I have followed the branding on my sample bottles, and the wines listed here are identified as Shannon Vineyards. However, you will find my review of one bottle—a retrospective sample of the 2018 Elgin Mount Bullet Merlot—under the producer name Downes Family Vineyard. James Downes produces some beautiful wines with a vineyard-first philosophy that puts the emphasis on quality fruit and farming. The portfolio includes Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and, of course, Merlot. The estate's Black Merlot is a special selection of the best barrel produced in any one vintage.
