Instantly impressive in the glass, the 2017 Leeu Passant Stellenbosch Chardonnay starts with aromas of ripe, round and fresh citrus and orchard fruit, compounded by elegant oak spices and seductive notions of a graham cracker crust, popcorn kernel, citrus blossom and lemon pastry cream. Medium-bodied, the palate is impeccably balanced, with succulent acidity, a round mouthfeel and silky mid-palate. As the wine sits on the palate, flavors of white peach, underripe pineapple, Marcona almonds and poached yellow apples over cardamom madeleines unfold in the mouth. The wine grows and reveals layers of complexity over the long, lingering finish. Bravo! They have captured beauty and finesse in this bottle.