Leeu Passant Stellenbosch Chardonnay

- Serve chilled at 10-12°C in large tulip-shaped glasses to emphasize the wine’s texture and subtle aromatics.
- Present with a thin slice of seared avocado sprinkled with smoked sea salt on the side as an appetizer bite.
- For a refreshing twist make a white wine cooler by mixing equal parts white wine and cold elderflower tonic garnished with a sprig of fresh tarragon and a ribbon of cucumber.
- Pair with warm goat cheese and walnut tartlets topped with a drizzle of local honey to balance richness and acidity.
- For an elegant canapé float a small cube of chilled melon or pear in a glass of white wine served with a tiny mint leaf on top.
- Perfect for spring brunches alongside an herbaceous asparagus and ricotta galette served slightly warm.
- Create an innovative white wine “float” by adding a small scoop of lemon verbena sorbet; serve in a chilled stemmed glass for a delicate palate cleanser.
- Serve alongside mildly spiced coconut curry chicken skewers to enhance both the creamy texture and the subtle fruit notes in the wine.
- Use as a base for a refreshing white wine punch: mix with chilled green apple juice a splash of ginger beer and garnish with thin apple slices and star anise pods for visual appeal.
- Try chilling the wine and serving it in frosted glasses on a tray with edible flowers for garden parties or outdoor summer evenings.

For optimal storage of white wine especially a Chardonnay:

- Temperature: Store unopened bottles in a cool stable environment between 45°F and 55°F (7°C to 13°C) ideally around 53°F for Chardonnay to maintain its delicate fruit and floral aromas and prevent premature aging or loss of quality.

- Light exposure: Keep the bottle in a dark place or a cabinet away from direct sunlight and UV light which can degrade the wine and cause premature aging.

- Sealing: Ensure the cork remains moist to prevent drying out and air ingress; avoid long-term storage in standard refrigerators as low humidity there can dry the cork.

- Bottle position: Store the bottle on its side to keep the cork moist and airtight preserving the wine’s integrity.

- Humidity: Maintain ambient humidity around 50-70% to prevent cork shrinkage or mold growth which could compromise the seal.

- Special considerations for opened bottles: After opening re-cork tightly and store opened bottles in the refrigerator at about 42°F to 50°F to slow oxidation. Consume within a few days to maintain quality.

Avoid temperature fluctuations as they cause expansion and contraction of the wine and cork increasing risk of spoilage. Keeping the environment consistently cool dark and slightly humid will best preserve the wine’s quality both unopened and once opened.