Lautus Na Chardonnay

Na Chardonnay from LAUTUS is a dealcoholised Chardonnay made in South Africa's Western Cape, and it carries an ABV of 0.5%, so it sits in the low-alcohol category rather than being strictly alcohol-free. The Western Cape is one of the Southern Hemisphere's main sources of Chardonnay, and wines from the area typically show ripe orchard and citrus fruit with a clean, bright acidity. Dealcoholised whites usually have a lighter body than their full-strength counterparts, so expect a softer mid-palate and a shorter finish than a conventional Chardonnay. Because Chardonnay is naturally low in tannin, the style translates well to this format, and you should not expect any grip or astringency. In the glass, look for the typical Chardonnay markers of green apple, pear and lemon, possibly with a touch of tropical fruit given the warm-climate origin. Any oak influence in this style is generally subtle, if present at all, so the wine is better thought of as fresh and fruit-driven than buttery or toasty. Producers of non-alcoholic wine often leave a little residual sweetness or rely on acidity to replace the weight alcohol would normally provide, so expect a slightly rounder, juicier impression than a dry still wine of the same grape. Serve it well chilled, around 6 to 8°C, since cold temperatures keep the acidity crisp and tighten the fruit. A couple of hours in the fridge is enough, and there is no need to decant. A standard white wine glass with a moderate bowl works well; a narrower tulip shape will concentrate the fruit aromas, which can be delicate in dealcoholised wines. At the table, it suits dishes where a fresh white would normally go: grilled white fish, prawns or calamari with lemon, roast chicken, creamy pasta, soft cheeses such as brie or chèvre, and light salads with vinaigrette. It also stands up to mild curries and Thai-style dishes where the fruit and acidity cut through gentle spice. This is a bottle to drink now. Dealcoholised wines are made for freshness and do not develop with cellaring, so open it within a short time of purchase and finish it within a day or two of opening, keeping it refrigerated and sealed.