Hannes Storm - Hemel-en-Aarde Valley WO - Vrede Chardonnay - White - 2022

Wine:

Both fresh and mineral-driven, the 2022 Vrede Hemel-en-Aarde Chardonnay White is immediately captivating with its aromas of lemon curd, yellow fruit, and pastry cream. Aged in oak—one-third of which is new—it shows a refined, elegant structure with impressive depth. This is a Chardonnay of stature and precision, unfolding with layers of citrus and stone fruit through to a long, vibrant finish. A truly distinguished wine. Rated 94+/100 by Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.

Vinification:

Hand harvested. Vinification with indigenous yeasts. Pressing and settling in stainless steel vats. Aged for 8 months in 228L French oak barrels, 30% of which are new.

Color:

Bright pale yellow.

Nose:

Subtle mineral notes surrounded by essences of spices, oak, and a hint of apple and lemon.

Palate:

A high-quality Chardonnay, this “Vrede” wine expresses elegance and finesse, unfolding citrus flavors with a slightly spicy finish.

Temperature:

Serve at 10 to 12°C.

Food and wine pairing:

Roast poultry, lake and river fish, veal blanquette with baby vegetables.

Cellar aging:

From now until 2032

Hannes Storm is one of the leading figures in South African wine, working with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay on the limestone and granite soils of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, about 120 km from Cape Town. This ultra-boutique, high-precision estate takes its cues from Burgundy—in both philosophy and style—with carefully selected parcels, meticulous aging, and very limited production.

The result is wines of finesse, elegance, and detail—a true gem for lovers of world-class wine.