Cape Town, 1 April 2025

The Whalehaven Seascape Reserve Chardonnay 2024 has been recognized as a “Top 10 Chardonnay in The World” at the recent Chardonnay du Monde 2025 competition, held at Château des Ravatys, in the wine region of Burgundy, France. This esteemed recognition places Whalehaven among the world’s most celebrated producers of this noble varietal, underscoring Whalehaven’s commitment to the fine production of seaside elegance and distinctive character.

The 32nd annual Chardonnay du Monde wine competition was held from March 11-13, 2025, and is recognised as the world’s most significant competition for identifying wines that deserve the accolade of the Best Chardonnay in the World.

Renowned Master of Wine, Richard Kershaw, who leads the winemaking, shared his insights: “The 2024 vintage of the Whalehaven Seascape Reserve Chardonnay is a masterpiece of balance and refinement. Pale gold in colour with attractive fragrance of gardenia and lucerne, which unfolds into layers of stone fruit characters, fresh pear, and a striking backbone of minerality. A deft touch of oak lends subtle toasty notes, spice and texture, while the palate delights with vibrant acidity, expressive orchard fruits, and a layered complexity that lingers long beyond the final sip. Structured, poised, and profoundly elegant, this vintage is a testament to the terroir of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley”.

The 2024 vintage, yet to be released to market, has already been allocated to global agents. With its captivating balance of coastal minerality, refined elegance, and remarkable persistence, this latest accolade further cements Whalehaven’s reputation as a leading name in fine Chardonnay.

The Vision Behind the Craft

At the helm of Whalehaven is Silvana Bottega, the second generation of the Bottega family, who is focused on elevating the quality of Whalehaven as a top producer on an international stage: “Winning this accolade from Chardonnay du Monde is more than just a milestone – it’s a testament to the exceptional terroir of Hemel-en-Aarde, and the unparalleled craftsmanship and expert knowledge of our winemaking team,” she remarks. “The 2024 vintage embodies the essence of cool-climate winemaking – an impeccable harmony of minerality, acidity, and elegance. It is a wine of remarkable depth and clarity, a true expression of its maritime origins”.

About Whalehaven Wines

Nestled at the gateway to the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Whalehaven is a family-owned winery dedicated to crafting world-class wines that capture the essence of this unique coastal terroir. With a focus on small-lot production, Whalehaven has particularly gained a reputation for producing exceptional Chardonnays—highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.

For more information or collateral: kaylee@bottegafamilywine.co.za | +27 21 8523590