Bright and expressive, this 2023 Chardonnay from Plaisir bursts with citrus notes of lemon and grapefruit layered over crisp green apple and a touch of white peach. The palate is structured yet elegant, with a full-bodied texture balanced by linear acidity and subtle minerality. A gentle oak influence adds depth without overpowering, leading to a clean, lingering finish. This is a premium South African Chardonnay that captures the purity and energy of Paarl’s terroir.
Crafted from dryland vineyards on the southeastern slopes of the Simonsberg, our Chardonnay reflects the unique character of granite-rich soils and cool elevations. Hand-harvested at peak ripeness, 80% of the grapes were whole-bunch pressed to preserve purity and finesse. Fermentation took place in new Burgundian oak, amphorae, and neutral barrels, followed by 10 months sur lie aging for texture and depth.
Winemaker: Tim Whitfield
Winemaker: Tim Whitfield
Plaisir Wine Estate, not only one of the oldest but one of the largest in the Western Cape at 974 hectares with some 230 hectares under vine. The remaining hectares are largely untouched to preserve the indigenous flora and fauna. The diverse terroir of the area is characterised by an interplay of climatic conditions, the slopes have well-drained weathered granite soils making it the perfect environment for exceptional grapes to thrive.
