The Liberator 'Knick Knack Paddywhack' Chardonnay 2021

If, like us at the time of writing, you'd rather not flog a kidney to afford white Burgundy, make this your go-to alternative. This parcel 'liberated' by Richard Kelley MW (under his pseudonym, Rick, The Liberator) is his first Chardonnay release. It's a triumph and if you didn't see the label before drinking, you might guess this was white Côte de Beaune. Of course, now that you've seen the label, you know that in contrast to classic white Burg, this is a bit of fun. And around half the price of entry-level Côte de Beaune from a good producer.

Zippy, clean citrus fruit, a touch of almost red apple and white flowers on the nose follow onto the palate, which has a lovely weight and creamy texture. Very lees-y, a little toasty and eminently drinkable.

‘Knick-Knack, Paddywhack’… Give the dog a Beaune (it had to be done). 

Rick says: This old man was only too happy to give this notable dog a home.

"Beyond the periphery of South Africa’s conventional vineyard regions lie great vinous treasures, resigned to anonymity; forgotten, abandoned or just simply undiscovered. It is the mission of Rick, our intrepid Cape Crusader, to seek out and liberate these rare wines, consigning them to the table of the most inquisitive and discerning imbiber. Each episode represents a single discovery; a precious parcel that is both unique and finite".