Thelema Chardonnay 2023
Description
Perched high on the Helshoogte slopes of Stellenbosch, Thelema Mountain Vineyards has crafted some of South Africa’s most expressive cool-climate wines. The 2023 Chardonnay comes from deeply rooted vineyards on decomposed granite soils that benefit from breezes off False Bay, giving the wine a vibrant tension of fresh acidity and mineral precision. Winemaker Duncan Clarke lets French oak integration and extended lees contact build texture and complexity, while preserving fruit clarity and a mineral core. This is Chardonnay with both finesse and character - reflective of both its terroir and traditional, thoughtful winemaking.
Colour: Pale straw-gold with a luminous sheen.
Nose: Inviting aromas of lemon zest, white blossom and stone fruit - peach and ripe nectarine - are wrapped with subtle toasty oak nuances and a hint of almond.
Palate: Medium-bodied and finely balanced, with vibrant citrus and orchard fruit flavours. A refined mineral streak carries through, joined by gently integrated French oak that adds creamy texture without heaviness. Bright acidity keeps the palate lively.
Finish: Long and polished, with lingering citrus and subtle oak-spice echoes that extend the finish.
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Thelema Chardonnay 2023
- Food Pairing : This elegant Stellenbosch Chardonnay shines with dishes that echo both its freshness and creamy richness. Serve with grilled lobster or buttery scallops, where its citrus-leaning acidity cuts through richness and enhances shellfish sweetness. It also complements pan-fried chicken with a lemon thyme sauce, or seared tuna with a light herb gremolata, offering balance between fruit, minerality, and gentle oak influence. For a vegetarian match, try butternut risotto with sage and toasted almonds - the wine’s textured palate and mineral thread enliven creamy flavours.
- Drink before: Enjoy now through about 2028 with careful cellaring.
- Vintage: 2023
- Manufacturer: Thelema
- Region: Stellenbosch
- Star Rating: Wine-of-the-Month Club’s Panel Rating: 4 Stars
- Medals Won: Platter's Wine Guide 2026: 5 Stars. International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) 2025: Gold Medal. Tim Atkin MW South Africa Special Report 2025: 94 points. Decanter World Wine Awards 2025: Silver Medal. International Wine Challenge 2025: Silver Medal.
- Grapes used to make this wine were grown in: Decomposed granite soils.
- Sugar Content: 1.7g/L
- Alcohol Content: 13%
Stock and Delivery:
In Stock: Standard delivery within 5 days
Stock at supplier: Delivery within 10 - 15 days
R99 Nationwide
Free Delivery: On orders over R2 000
Our Guarantee:
We guarantee a full credit on the cost of the wine, no questions asked, and we will also collect the remainder of any pack and refund you in full if you are unhappy with the quality, the service or any aspect of Wine-of-the-Month Club.
Replacements:
In the unlikely event that there is a broken bottle in your case, please tell us immediately and we will credit your account. We reserve the right to substitute product if stock runs out, to the same or higher value of the stock.
Please note:
These figures are subject to change.