Chardonnay

Hemel-en-Aarde Chardonnay

The Hemel-en-Aarde, comprising the 3 contiguous appellations (Wine Wards), Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley and Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, is not only known for outstanding classically styled Pinot noir, but for extraordinary, classically styled Chardonnay as well. This is fitting, given Chardonnay’s ancient genetic relationship with Pinot noir and its natural optimal performance in the same or similar terroir. The Hemel-en-Aarde’s ancient soils and cool maritime growing conditions have proved to be ideal for both varieties. 

South Africa overall, produces great Chardonnay in a wide range of styles - and Chardonnay of great value when viewed in an international context. But probably nowhere in South Africa are a greater number of Chardonnays produced that have gained as much international recognition from the world’s sommeliers and fine wine lovers, than the Hemel-en-Aarde. While production is small, the international and local impact has been significant. 

In the context of South African Chardonnay styles, Hemel-en-Aarde Chardonnay has vibrant acidity, bright minerality, tightness and classic styling, and is often confused with top white Burgundy. Its fruit profile tends more towards citrus fruit, apple and pear than anything tropical.  Stellenbosch Chardonnay is generally fuller, richer, softer and rounder and tends more towards tropicality. Elgin Chardonnay, while bright and vibrant, has a fruit profile tending a little more towards stone-fruit and is perhaps a touch less “old world” in its expression than the Hemel-en-Aarde. 

Consumers can choose from a wide range of styles, Stellenbosch, Elgin, Robertson, Hemel-en-Aarde and more. No one style is necessarily better than the other. It is however the case that if vibrant, classically styled Chardonnay is what is most admired and enjoyed, there are very few places outside Burgundy that deliver it so beautifully and consistently as the Hemel-en-Aarde.