Glenelly, Stellenbosch (South Africa) Chardonnay 2018

 There’s a lot of Chardonnay made around the world, and now that the big vanilla-butterball style has gone out of fashion, there’s a lot of really good Chardonnay made around the world.  That makes it all the more surprising that one country has a clear lead in turning out delicious, high-value renditions priced under $20, and that country is South Africa.  This wine is a compelling case in point, showing wonderfully pure flavors with peach, tropical and citrus fruit all interestingly intermingled.  Medium-bodied and balanced with fresh acidity, this is so versatile that you’ll need to make a real effort to find a dish appropriate for white wine that it won’t work with, and on top of all that, it makes a great sipping wine too.  Indisputably delicious.