Balfour Winery Springfield Chardonnay 2018

This is the first style of white wine Balfour have aged in oak. The grapes come from three parcels of Chardonnay planted on the estate, all being Burgundy clones, which is better suited for still white wine production. The wine has spent five months in new French and American oak, which helps to add elements of spice and vanilla to the wine. This is still a fresh and fruity wine, with flavours of grapefruit and green apple, typically of cool climate Chardonnays. But skilful use of the oak creates an added intensity and complexity to the wine.

Great when paired with oysters, pan fried fish and a green salad.

When Richard and Leslie Balfour-Lynn planted their first vines near Staplehurst in Kent back in 2002, they had plans to become leaders in the budding English wine industry. Their estate, nestled in the Weald of Kent, is perfect for viticulture and while they're best known for their sparkling wines, their still wines are also top-notch. They've definitely hit their objectives, with their wines certainly being held in high regard. As well as this, they've dived into enotourism in a big way, proudly calling themselves England's best vineyard to visit.