Hartenberg Chardonnay 2022

Region and Vineyards

Located on the cool slopes of the Bottelary Hills in Stellenbosch, Hartenberg Estate has long been synonymous with world-class Shiraz—but its Chardonnay has emerged as a rising star, gaining critical acclaim for its purity and elegance. The vineyards benefit from cool air flowing off False Bay, moderating the climate and extending the ripening period. This extended hang time allows Chardonnay grapes to develop layered aromas while preserving natural acidity.

In 2022, the grapes were hand-harvested early in the morning over seven days, capturing freshness and subtle varietal character. Each picking parcel and morning lot was kept separate in the cellar to allow for precision blending and optimal quality selection for the final cuvée. This detailed approach to harvest and vinification has become a signature of Hartenberg’s white wine philosophy.

Winemaking

The 2022 vintage was vinified with meticulous attention to preserving freshness and complexity. All parcels were vinified separately, and the wine underwent 10 months of maturation in 225L French oak barrels, of which 15% were new. This approach lends a subtle layer of oak complexity without overpowering the varietal purity.

The final wine displays 13% alcohol, with a total acidity of 6.7 g/L, a pH of 3.29, and a residual sugar of 2.8 g/L, maintaining a lively and balanced profile. The wine is suitable for cellaring up to 8 years from vintage, offering potential for increased depth and richness over time.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale lemon with green reflections.
• Aroma: Delicate and floral, showing notes of orange blossom, bright citrus, and a hint of brioche toast. An aromatic purity underscored by a lifted limey intensity.
• Palate: Linear and focused on entry, revealing zesty citrus acidity, followed by subtle layers of peaches and cream. Oak is seamlessly integrated, adding structure without weight. The finish is long, clean, and mineral-driven, promising further evolution with age.

Did you know?

Hartenberg’s Chardonnay has quietly built a reputation for quality, consistently earning 90+ point scores from critics such as Tim Atkin MW, Decanter, and Vinous. While better known for Shiraz, the estate's white wine program has become a hidden gem, showcasing Chardonnay with a distinctive cool-climate South African character.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Smoked chicken with lemon and crème fraîche – Matches the wine’s bright acidity and creamy texture.
• Seared tuna with lime and olive oil – A perfect complement to the citrus-driven palate.
• Creamy pasta with wild mushrooms – Highlights the oak nuance and savoury undertones.
• Grilled duck breast with apricot glaze – Balances richness with acidity and stone fruit character.

History of Hartenberg

Hartenberg’s viticultural legacy dates back to 1692, when the original land grant was awarded under Cape Governor Simon van der Stel. The estate underwent several ownership changes throughout the 18th and 19th centuries before establishing itself as a prominent winegrowing property.

In the 1920s, the property was purchased by Maurice and Eleanor Finlayson, pioneers who replanted vines and laid the groundwork for modern viticulture on the farm. Their legacy would be continued in earnest by the McKenzie family, who acquired the estate in the 1980s and invested heavily in vineyard improvement and cellar innovation.

Under the guidance of Carl Schultz, who joined in 1993 as winemaker and later became cellar master, Hartenberg developed an international reputation for site-specific Syrah, with Gravel Hill Shiraz becoming one of South Africa’s first and most acclaimed single-vineyard wines. The estate also produces distinguished Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Bordeaux blends, and Chenin Blanc, among others.

Throughout its history, Hartenberg has remained family-owned and has consistently prioritized sustainability, soil health, and environmental stewardship, preserving vast natural areas on the property.

Region and Vineyards

Hartenberg is situated in the Bottelary Hills, a sub-region of Stellenbosch, famed for its complex geology, elevation, and maritime-influenced climate. The estate’s 170 hectares include over 60 hectares under vine, with the remainder dedicated to biodiversity conservation and fynbos restoration.

The soils at Hartenberg range from deep, red granitic loam to iron-rich koffieklip, offering distinct profiles that are matched carefully to specific grape varieties. The vineyards benefit from cool sea breezes that prolong ripening, ensuring vibrant acidity and fine phenolic maturity. The estate follows sustainable farming principles, with minimal intervention and a focus on soil vitality.

Wine Range of Hartenberg

Hartenberg is best known for its Shiraz collection, which includes the Estate Shiraz, the flagship Gravel Hill Shiraz, and the The Stork, a limited cuvée named after a WWII fighter pilot and family patriarch.

The estate also produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and a Bordeaux-style blend named Doorkeeper. On the white side, Chenin Blanc, Riesling, and a Chardonnay round out a balanced portfolio, all crafted with precision and elegance.

Each wine reflects the estate’s emphasis on terroir expression, age-worthiness, and classic structure.

Did you know?

Hartenberg’s Gravel Hill Shiraz was one of the first single-vineyard Syrahs in South Africa and has been served at state banquets and global wine showcases as a benchmark of South African excellence. The estate is also home to one of the oldest underground cellars in the Cape Winelands, maintaining ideal conditions for barrel maturation.