Franschhoek Cellar’s Our Town Hall Chardonnay 2010 achieved international recognition for the winery with a Gold Medal at the Monde Selection International Wine Competition, announced in Brussels earlier this month.

“This award is particularly encouraging after our strategic departure from any oak treatment on our Chardonnay from the 2010 vintage,” said Franschhoek Cellar winemaker Richard Duckitt. Previously, the Chardonnay was partially wood fermented and matured. “In my opinion, keeping our Chardonnay pure and simple with primary fruit and no wood treatment is the best interpretation of our vineyards and grapes.”

An international jury of industry experts showed their agreement by awarding Our Town Hall Chardonnay 2010 one of only 7 gold medals received by South African producers this year.

The Monde Selection International Wine Competition 2011 received entries from more than 20 countries with no more than 30% of the wines receiving medals in line with the strict regulations of the EU International Organisation of Wines and Vines.

“We like to think of our wines as ambassadors for Franschhoek,” said Richard. “As a community inspired producer, we like to let the wines speak for their truly awesome origins.” The Our Town Hall Chardonnay is named for the Franschhoek Town Hall, an excellent example of Cape Dutch architecture.

A fresher crispy release with citrus blossom and lemon cream notes, Franschhoek Cellar Our Town Hall Chardonnay 2010 is available from supermarkets and fine wine retailers nationwide.

To win two cases of Our Town Hall Chardonnay 2010, click here.