A South African valley completely wrapped in a dense blanket of white clouds, capable of hiding the sun and stopping time itself. This is not the scene of a film, but the reality behind this extraordinary Beneath the Clouds white wine. We are in the fascinating region of Elgin, a lush and untouched plateau in South Africa. This territory is a true natural amphitheatre, entirely surrounded by steep and majestic mountain ranges. Here nature has created the ideal conditions for cutting-edge viticulture, where altitudes reaching 500 metres above sea level and distinctly cold winters make Elgin the coolest wine region in all of South Africa. The protagonist of this ecosystem is the Cape Doctor, a strong and cool wind blowing from the south-east during the summer season. When it meets the mountainous amphitheatre of Elgin, this wind pushes cold ocean air directly over the vineyards, covering the entire valley with a soft blanket of clouds. This natural barrier shields the vines from the sun’s rays, drastically lowers daytime temperatures and slows grape ripening, allowing the fruit to develop an aromatic profile of rare intensity. Made from 100% Chardonnay, this noble Burgundian grape variety finds a second home among these mountains, expressing a verticality and finesse reminiscent of the great European examples, while still retaining the sunny and generous character typical of the New World. The grapes, harvested while still cool, are gently whole-bunch pressed. After overnight gravity settling, the juice is racked. Fermentation takes place partly with wild yeasts in old third-fill French oak barriques, while 25% of the wine ferments in stainless steel tanks to preserve fruity freshness. To maintain its vibrant, razor-sharp acidity, malolactic fermentation is inhibited and no batonnage is carried out. The wine then matures for 9 months before the final blend. In the glass it displays a beautiful straw-yellow colour, bright and concentrated. On the nose it opens generously with intense aromas of ripe peach, warm oatmeal nuances and an elegant mineral streak of flint. On the palate it reveals a wine of masterful balance. Dense and enveloping, it is dominated by clear notes of grapefruit and citrus fruit. The integration between the tertiary oak tones and the freshness of the fruit is flawless. At the table it calls for rich and structured dishes. Perfect with salmon fillet in pastry crust, where the wine’s density supports the richness of the fish. It also pairs beautifully with seared scallops, enhancing the mollusc’s natural sweetness. Finally, it is well worth trying with spicy grilled chicken.