Thelema Chardonnay 2023
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Thelema Chardonnay 2023
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.
- 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
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