Hartenberg Chardonnay 2024

Hartenberg Wine Estate is a historic family-owned estate established in 1692 in the Bottelary Hills of Stellenbosch. Its vineyards occupy varied slopes and elevations, where differences in exposure and growing conditions allow individual grape varieties to develop their own character. The estate is particularly well known for its red wines, but its Chardonnay demonstrates a similarly considered approach to expressing fruit, freshness and site. For the Hartenberg Chardonnay 2024, grapes are hand-picked in the early morning to help preserve their delicate primary aromas. Individual vineyard parcels and picking batches are kept separate during the winemaking process, allowing the team to assess their qualities before assembling the final wine. The result is a Chardonnay that combines fresh orchard fruit and citrus with a subtle creamy texture and restrained oak influence.

Colour: Pale straw yellow with a bright, clear appearance in the glass.
Nose: Fresh lemon and lime aromas lead, followed by ripe pear, Golden Delicious apple and a touch of apricot. Subtle notes of hay and honey add a savoury dimension, while gentle oak influence brings a hint of warmth and complexity. 
Palate: Dry and refreshing, with lively citrus flavours of lemon and lime alongside pear and yellow apple. Crisp acidity gives the wine energy and definition, while a subtle creamy texture softens the palate. A clean mineral edge and restrained oak add complexity without overshadowing the fruit.
Finish: Long and refreshing, with lingering citrus, orchard fruit and delicate honeyed and savoury notes. The acidity keeps the finish focused and gives the wine an appealing freshness.