WeeklySA_AdminCOOL-CLIMATE: As wine lovers celebrate Chardonnay Month, a string of awards for the Neil Ellis Whitehall Chardonnay 2023 highlights the growing international recognition of South Africa’s cool-climate Chardonnays…
By Len Maseko
As Chardonnay Month draws to a close, South African winemakers have another reason to celebrate: the continued rise of locally produced Chardonnays on the global stage.
Long regarded as one of the world’s most versatile grape varieties, Chardonnay has become a benchmark through which wine regions measure quality, craftsmanship and terroir. In South Africa, a growing number of producers are proving that the country’s cool-climate vineyards can compete with some of the finest Chardonnay-producing regions in the world.
Among the wines attracting attention this year is the Neil Ellis Whitehall Chardonnay 2023, which has added to an impressive run of accolades for the Stellenbosch producer’s flagship white wine.
The latest vintage received 96 points and secured a place in the Top 10 of the 2025 Prescient Chardonnay Report, one of the country’s leading assessments of the variety. It also earned 95 points in the 2026 Platter’s South African Wine Guide, while respected international critics Tim Atkin MW and James Suckling each awarded it 92 points.
The recognition follows the success of the 2022 vintage, which was named Best Overall Chardonnay at the 2025 Prescient Chardonnay Report.
Industry observers say the awards reflect a broader trend rather than an isolated achievement. South African Chardonnay has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades, with producers increasingly favouring elegance, freshness and site-specific character over heavily wooded styles that once dominated the market.
Cool-climate regions such as Elgin, Hemel-en-Aarde, Overberg and parts of Stellenbosch have emerged as leading Chardonnay-producing areas, benefiting from slower ripening conditions that allow grapes to develop complexity while retaining natural acidity.
The Whitehall Chardonnay traces its roots to Elgin, where Neil Ellis produced the first certified Elgin Chardonnay. The region’s cool temperatures and extended growing season continue to provide ideal conditions for producing wines known for balance and finesse.
The 2023 vintage displays many of the characteristics increasingly associated with South Africa’s modern Chardonnay style. Aromas of citrus blossom, lime and stone fruit are supported by subtle mineral notes, while careful barrel maturation and lees ageing contribute texture without overwhelming the fruit.
For consumers, Chardonnay’s enduring appeal lies in its versatility. Equally at home alongside seafood, poultry and creamy dishes, it remains one of the most food-friendly wines available and continues to attract both seasoned collectors and new wine drinkers.
The growing success of South African Chardonnays comes at a time when the country’s wine industry is seeking to strengthen its international profile amid challenging economic conditions and increasing competition from established global producers.
Yet, the consistent recognition of local wines in international reviews and competitions, suggests that South Africa’s reputation for producing premium Chardonnay is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
As Chardonnay Month celebrates a grape variety enjoyed across the globe, the latest accolades for the Whitehall Chardonnay serve as another reminder that some of the world’s most exciting expressions are now being produced closer to home
EVENTS
Durbanville Hills’ Thursdaze
Wine lovers looking for a relaxed and unconventional night out can look forward to Unfiltered Thursdaze, a new after-hours experience at Durbanville Hills.
Taking place on selected Thursdays from June 4 to July 9, the weekly gathering offers guests an opportunity to explore wine in a setting that is more about stories and connections than formal tastings and wine jargon.
The evening begins at 6pm with a welcome glass of wine and three paired bites served at the table, followed by an informal introduction from the winery team. Guests are then free to explore exclusive barrel samples, experimental blends and in-progress wines that are not usually available to the public.
A highlight of the experience is the interactive “Guess the Barrel” challenge, where participants attempt to identify a wine’s varietal and stage of development for a chance to win tickets to a future event.
Tickets cost R150 per person and are available in advance. Limited seating is available.
Uitsig Wine Fest For Welkom
Wine enthusiasts are in for a treat when the Uitsig Wine Fest 2026 uncorks an afternoon of fine wines, food and entertainment at Uitsig Boutique Hotel on Saturday, 27 June.
The popular festival will bring together more than 17 wine estates from across South Africa, offering visitors the chance to sample a wide range of wines in a relaxed outdoor setting. Running from noon, the event promises an enjoyable winter outing for both seasoned wine lovers and casual enthusiasts.
Guests can expect live performances by local artists, a variety of food stalls and a family-friendly atmosphere set against the backdrop of the boutique hotel’s picturesque grounds. While wine tasting takes centre stage, organisers have ensured there is plenty to keep non-drinkers and younger family members entertained.Adult tickets cost R300 and include a complimentary tasting glass as well as unlimited wine tastings between 12pm and 3pm.
Festival-goers are encouraged to secure their tickets early through Quicket, as demand is expected to be high.
Organisers have reminded attendees that no alcohol will be sold or served to persons under the age of 18, and proof of age may be requested before wine is served.
The Uitsig Wine Fest continues to grow as one of the Free State’s premier wine and lifestyle events, celebrating South Africa’s rich wine culture in a welcoming and festive setting.
Brandy Fest Toasts Stellenbosch
South Africa’s finest brandies will take centre stage when the Brandy Festival returns to Stellenbosch on Saturday, 4 July for its third celebration of the country’s award-winning distilling craft.
Hosted at The Salene on Devon Valley Road from 14h00 to 21h00, the festival promises a rich tasting experience featuring leading local distilleries showcasing their signature styles through guided tastings and bespoke cocktails crafted by expert mixologists.
Guests can enjoy three cocktails and four neat serves with the general admission ticket (R300), while the VIP Cigar and Brandy Pairing experience (R550) adds a premium tasting featuring a Cuban or Nicaraguan cigar, paired with selected potstill and Cape Brandies, plus espresso and Waterford salted caramel chocolates in an exclusive cigar lounge.
Live DJ sets and a free shuttle service within a 15km radius add to the winter atmosphere.
Shuttle seats must be pre-booked via events@sabrandy.co.za by July 1.
Tickets are available through Quicket.
Trophy Show Tasting Joburg
Johannesburg’s wine calendar turns premium, as the Trophy Wine Show Great Tasting returns to the Sandton Convention Centre on June 11 for its sought-after one-night showcase.
Hosted by the Trophy Wine Show and presented by Investec, the “Hot-off-the-Press” tasting runs from 17h00 to 21h00, offering wine lovers exclusive access to around 150 award-winning wines.
Each selection has scored 90 points or more, identified through the show’s rigorous blind tasting process led by respected wine authority Michael Fridjhon alongside an expert panel of international and local judges.
Guests can expect a curated line-up of trophy, gold and silver medal winners, including standout categories such as Best White and Red Wines of Show, the International Judges’ Trophy winner, Best Premium Wine and the Discovery of the Show for exceptional value.
From rare finds to benchmark vintages, the Great Tasting promises a refined evening of discovery for serious collectors and casual enthusiasts alike.
Jozi Bubbly Fest Weekend
The Johannesburg Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival returns to the Inanda Polo Club on 30 and 31 May with an Italian Riviera-inspired celebration of sparkling wines, fashion, food and glamour.
Johannesburg’s favourite sparkling wine celebration, will be hosted by actress Zola Nombona with a touch of Italian Riviera glamour under the banner of La Dolce Vita.
The Johannesburg Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival returns to the Inanda Polo Club on 30 and 31 May, promising a weekend of elegance, sunshine, style and flowing bubbles
Festivalgoers can expect a showcase of leading Cap Classique producers, Champagne houses and boutique bubbly brands, alongside new wine discoveries, gourmet food offerings and fashion-forward festivities.
Adding to the atmosphere is this year’s Italian-inspired theme, encouraging guests to embrace linen, Riviera chic and effortless glamour. Festival merchandise will also be available as organisers lean fully into the Mediterranean mood.
The event will once again feature its popular Best Dressed Competition, taking place daily at 14:30, while guests can skip long queues by ordering food and wine directly through the Serva App.
Tickets, available through Webtickets, start from R450.
Grape Escape at Kirstenbosch
The sixth annual Grape Escape Wine Festival, hosted by Wine Concepts, will be taking place at Moyo Restaurant June 11.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, the evening event promises a curated tasting experience featuring an array of distinctive wines from 40 of South Africa’s leading producers.
Guests will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of varietals and blends, including Cinsault, Viura, Mourvèdre, Verdelho, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo and Barbera, alongside Chenin Blanc and Rhône- style favourites such as Viognier, Roussanne, Syrah and Grenache.
Running from 18:00 to 21:00, the festival offers more than just tastings.
Carefully paired snacks will be served throughout the evening, enhancing the overall experience, while attendees will also be able to purchase featured wines at discounted prices on-site.
Tickets cost R480 per person, available via Quicket, at Wine Concepts stores, or at the door on the day, subject to availability.. – Compiled by Len Maseko: lenmaseko@weeklysamirror.news
