GlenWood – Franschhoek’s Home Of Chardonnay

A brand that has stood the test of time, producing world-class Chardonnays, GlenWood Vineyards in Franschhoek is the Home of Chardonnay.

Its story began in 1984 when owner Alastair Wood had the vision, building the brand (and land) from scratch, and over the years has established an enviable reputation for the outstanding quality for its wines.

Chardonnay, being the farm’s flagship cultivar, has over the years been recognized both on the local and international front, which includes the prestigious Platter 5-star ratings, and the latest gold medal from the 2023 Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge for their GlenWood Chardonnay 2023.

With their attention firmly focused on this varietal, the portfolio comprises the Grand Duc Chardonnay 2021, Vigneron’s Selection Chardonnay 2022 and the GlenWood Chardonnay 2023.

Reflecting their noble heritage and part of the top range is the Grand Duc Chardonnay 2021. Winemaker, Natasha Pretorius, describes this showstopper wine as a yellow straw colour. Butterscotch, yeast and nuances of bottle age characteristics are prominent on the nose, which allow for good integration with oak and fruit. On the palate the secondary characters have rounded this wine to be mouth filling, well-matured with a lingering finish. Available from the Tasting Room at R605 per bottle.

Cellar Master, DP Burger, who has been at GlenWood for more than 30 years was closely involved when it came to only selecting the best grapes for the Vigneron’s Selection Chardonnay 2022. Available through the Tasting Room at R280 per bottle, the wine, which is a beautiful yellow straw colour, has a subdued nose with vanilla and marmalade aromas. On the palate you are met with citrus peel and butter notes, resulting in a crisp and lingering aftertaste. A lengthy and refined wine with a steely minerality on the finish.

Completing the trio is the GlenWood Chardonnay 2023, which showcases elegant orange blossom and lime aromas on the nose, supported by green apple and lime flavours on the palate. This wine’s crisp and refreshing features are perfectly balanced with a lingering finish. Pairs well with Thai or Mediterranean dishes and is a must with Sushi and fresh seafood. Selling for R120 per bottle this makes for the perfect everyday Chardonnay drink.

For more information on these superb wines as well as the rest of GlenWood’s wine offerings, as well as their outstandingly popular sushi restaurant, visit www.glenwoodvineyards.co.za/.