Discover Whalehaven Chardonnay - A Must-Try

Taste Award-Winning, Internationally Acclaimed Chardonnays

from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley

Whalehaven Winery warmly invites you to experience their globally celebrated wines. With a 5-star rating in Platter’s South African Wine Guide, top honors at the International Wine Challenge, and recognition as one of the Top 10 Chardonnays in the World at Chardonnay du Monde 2025, their Seascape Reserve Chardonnay continues to make waves internationally.

Join us in tasting some Whalehaven wines for a glimpse into the future of winemaking in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.

Since 2020, Whalehaven has refined its style to reflect the coastal terroir in a more linear, mineral-driven manner. The appointment of Richard Kershaw in 2023 has further sharpened their vision, significantly enhancing the precision of the Terroir Series and Reserve Chardonnays.

“We are honored to receive this recognition and grateful for the team leading Whalehaven into a new chapter.” – Silvana Bottega

Whalehaven Chardonnay – Among the Best in the World!

Whalehaven's commitment to terroir-driven wines resonates with both South African and international wine lovers. Whalehaven is positioning itself as one of South Africa’s most exciting Chardonnay producers, creating wines that embody elegance, precision, and true expression of origin.

The recent accolades highlight Whalehaven’s focus and dedication to crafting wines that harmonize elegance, minerality, and vibrant fruit – always with clear origins.

Under the leadership of Silvana Bottega, with the expert guidance of Richard Kershaw and his team, Whalehaven Wines is well-positioned for future success.

Spotlight: Master of Wine Richard Kershaw

Whalehaven is proud of its close collaboration with Richard Kershaw, Master of Wine, who has played a pivotal role in developing new wines inspired by the cool climate and terroir since the 2023 vintage.

Richard Kershaw is an esteemed Master of Wine based in South Africa, recognized as an influential figure in the South African wine industry. With a passion for viticulture and extensive production and consulting experience, Kershaw is known for his innovative techniques and unyielding quality standards. His expertise has earned him considerable acclaim.

“We are proud to work with Richard Kershaw, Dudley Wilson, and their exceptional team to create a new wave of wines and congratulate them on their achievements,” emphasizes owner Silvana Bottega.

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

2023 Vintage - Whalehaven Seascape Reserve Chardonnay

At the prestigious International Wine Challenge (IWC) in 2024, the Whalehaven Seascape Chardonnay 2023 received an outstanding 96 points, securing a podium position for the Hemel-en-Aarde Trophy as one of the top-rated white wines from South Africa.

The Whalehaven Seascape Reserve 2023 captivates with its fascinating aromas of acacia, honeysuckle, and orange zest. These scents transition into an exquisitely structured palate, enriched with lush notes of green fig, culminating in a refreshing finish that showcases its flawless balance and finesse.

This Whalehaven Chardonnay affirmed its success in the demanding 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, held at Château des Ravatys in Burgundy.

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

With its intriguing blend of marine minerality, refined elegance, and impressive length, this latest accolade further cements Whalehaven's reputation as a leading name in premium Chardonnay.

2021 Vintage - Whalehaven Seascape Reserve Chardonnay

The Whalehaven Seascape Chardonnay 2021 is gaining traction among collectors. Building on the groundbreaking 2020 vintage, the 2021 shows even more clarity, freshness, and precision – earning a prestigious 5-star rating in Platter’s Wine Guide.

With its lively citrus freshness, clear acidity structure, and typical refined coastal character, this Chardonnay perfectly captures the essence of the cool Hemel-en-Aarde terroir.

Sandstone Strata Chardonnay 2023

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

This recognition holds global significance, as the IWC is among the most prestigious wine competitions worldwide.