Rustenberg Chardonnay

Rustenberg Wine Estate is one of South Africa’s oldest wine producers founded in 1682. The winery is still family owned and is located on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch. The estate manages their vineyards sustainably with careful environmental stewardship, with careful conservation of the land surrounding the vines. Stellenbosch’s Mediterranean climate with cool Atlantic breezes and soils of decomposed granite and shale gives ripe yet fresh Chardonnay fruit with balanced natural acidity.

Their Chardonnay is made from grapes that are hand harvested and whole bunch pressed before wild yeast fermentation in French oak barrels. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and is aged on lees for around eight months, with a portion matured in new oak and the rest in older barrels to build texture and complexity. Expect apricot, citrus and stone fruit aromas with hints of marzipan and gentle oak integration balanced by vibrant acidity. This rich yet elegant wine pairs perfectly with seafood, roast chicken, creamy pasta and soft cheeses.