Vergelegen, Reserve Chardonnay 2022
Product Information
Country South Africa
Region Stellenbosch
Grape Variety Chardonnay
Vintage 2022
ABV 13.5%
Discover the elegance and complexity of the Vergelegen Reserve Chardonnay 2022, a premium estate-grown South African Chardonnay crafted from hand-selected grapes sourced from the renowned Rooiland 12, Rooiland 13, and Lower Schaapenberg vineyards. These cool-climate, high-altitude vineyards are known for producing exceptional Chardonnay grapes with vibrant acidity and concentrated flavour.
This vintage is vinified with meticulous care. The grapes are whole-bunch pressed with no skin contact, then fermented in a combination of 30% new and 70% seasoned French oak barrels. Wild fermentation was encouraged for the first week before the addition of selected yeasts, enhancing complexity. Only 30% of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation, preserving its crisp natural acidity.
Aged on the lees for 8 months, this Chardonnay develops a creamy texture and subtle richness. In the glass, it presents a luminous lemony yellow-green hue, offering a complex bouquet of citrus, white peach, pineapple, apricot, citrus blossoms, and buttered toast. The palate is refined and long, with vibrant minerality and elegant structure, a true reflection of its cool-climate terroir.
Perfect for pairing with shellfish, roast poultry, or creamy pasta dishes, the Vergelegen Reserve Chardonnay 2022 is a must-have for Chardonnay lovers and collectors of fine South African white wines.
Discover world-renowned wines from the historic Vergelegen Wine Estate, located in the heart of South Africa’s Western Cape Province. With a winemaking legacy that dates back to 1700, Vergelegen is one of the oldest and most prestigious wine estates in South Africa.
Founded by Willem Adriaan van der Stel, then Governor of the Cape Province, Vergelegen quickly became a hub for premium South African wine production. The estate changed hands in 1798 when the Thieunissen family took ownership and began extensive vine planting. Though wine production was halted during the 19th century due to the phylloxera epidemic, the estate’s revival began in 1917 under Sir Lionel Phillips, who purchased it for his wife. She lovingly restored the vineyards, setting the foundation for Vergelegen’s future as a top-tier wine producer.
A major transformation took place in 1987 when Anglo American acquired the estate. With significant investment and innovation, Vergelegen re-emerged as one of South Africa’s most acclaimed wine estates, celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillon wines. These wines continue to win accolades and attract wine lovers from around the globe.
A standout feature of the Vergelegen vineyard is its unique octagonal layout and remarkable soil diversity, home to over 21 distinct soil types across more than 258 hectares of vineyard land. This terroir plays a vital role in crafting wines with depth, character, and unmistakable South African identity.
