Whalehaven Chardonnay - A Must-Try from South Africa

Explore Award-Winning, Globally Acclaimed Chardonnays

from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley

Whalehaven Winery invites you to sample their award-winning wines. With a 5-star rating in Platter’s South African Wine Guide, top accolades at the International Wine Challenge, and being recognized as one of the Top 10 Chardonnays in the World at Chardonnay du Monde 2025, the Seascape Reserve Chardonnay continues to capture international attention.

Come taste a few Whalehaven wines for a glimpse into the future of winemaking in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.

Since 2020, Whalehaven has enhanced its style to reflect the coastal terroir more distinctly. The appointment of Richard Kershaw in 2023 has fine-tuned their vision, significantly improving the precision of the Terroir Series and Reserve Chardonnays.

“We are thankful for this recognition and our team, which is taking Whalehaven into a new era.” – Silvana Bottega

Whalehaven Chardonnay – Among the Finest in the World!

Whalehaven's dedication to terroir-driven wines resonates with both South African and international wine enthusiasts. Whalehaven is increasingly recognized as one of South Africa's most exciting Chardonnay producers, consistently crafting wines that embody elegance, precision, and authentic expressions of origin.

The recently acquired awards emphasize Whalehaven's commitment and passion for producing wines that harmonize elegance, minerality, and vibrant fruit – always with a clearly defined provenance.

Under the direction of Silvana Bottega, with the expert oversight of Richard Kershaw and his team, Whalehaven Wines is well-prepared for future successes.

Focal Point: Master of Wine Richard Kershaw

Whalehaven takes pride in its collaboration with Richard Kershaw, Master of Wine, who has been instrumental in the development of new Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines inspired by the cool climate and terroir since the 2023 vintage.

Richard Kershaw is a reputable Master of Wine based in South Africa and recognized as a prominent figure in the South African wine scene. Known for innovative techniques and unwavering commitment to quality, Kershaw's expertise has earned him considerable recognition in the industry.

“We are proud to work with Richard Kershaw, Dudley Wilson, and their dedicated team to create a new wave of wines,” says owner Silvana Bottega.

These extraordinary wines, produced by the third oldest winery in the Hemel-en-Aarde region, reflect the unique terroir and the ocean-influenced climate, true to their motto:
“A Triumph of Nature.”

2023 Vintage - Whalehaven Seascape Reserve Chardonnay

At the renowned International Wine Challenge (IWC) in 2024, the Whalehaven Seascape Chardonnay 2023 earned outstanding 96 points, ensuring a place on the podium for the Hemel-en-Aarde Trophy as one of the highest-rated white wines from South Africa.

The Whalehaven Seascape Reserve 2023 shines with alluring aromas of acacia, honeysuckle, and orange zest, leading into an exquisitely structured palate enriched with lush notes of green fig. It finishes refreshingly, showcasing its flawless balance and finesse.

This Whalehaven Chardonnay further confirmed its place in the esteemed world of Chardonnays with a Gold Medal at the National Chardonnay Challenge 2024.

2024 Vintage - Whalehaven Seascape Reserve Chardonnay

The Whalehaven Seascape Reserve Chardonnay 2024 was awarded as one of the “Top 10 Chardonnays in the World” at the prestigious Chardonnay du Monde 2025.

The esteemed Master of Wine Richard Kershaw, responsible for its vinification, provided his insights:
“The 2024 vintage of the Whalehaven Seascape Reserve Chardonnay is a masterpiece of balance and finesse.”

With its unique combination of marine minerality, refined elegance, and lasting length, this latest recognition reinforces Whalehaven's status as a leading name for premium Chardonnay.

2021 Vintage - Whalehaven Seascape Reserve Chardonnay

The Whalehaven Seascape Chardonnay 2021 is increasingly sought after by collectors. Building on the groundbreaking 2020 vintage, the 2021 shows remarkable clarity, freshness, and precision – earning a distinguished 5-star rating in Platter’s Wine Guide.

With its vibrant citrus freshness, clear acidity structure, and sophisticated coastal character, this Chardonnay truly captures the essence of the cool Hemel-en-Aarde terroir.

Sandstone Strata Chardonnay 2023

A second triumph for Whalehaven at the International Wine Challenge 2024 was the Whalehaven Sandstone Strata 2023, which received an impressive 95 points.

This accolade holds worldwide significance, as the IWC is known for being one of the most prestigious wine competitions globally.