2023 Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay

history of Hamilton Russell Vineyards and its owners

In 1975, Tim Hamilton Russell acquired a vast estate in the Hemel‑en‑Aarde Valley near Hermanus. In 1991, his son Anthony took over management and from 1994 onwards he focused the estate entirely on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Since then, Anthony, oenologist Emul Ross and viticulturist Johan Montgomery have managed estate-wide sustainable viticulture, with all grapes coming from their own vineyards.

region Heaven and Earth Valley and climate

The vineyards are located close to the Atlantic coast, with a temperate maritime climate characterized by cool marine influences and low temperature variations. The soil is stony, rich in shale and clay, with limited water storage. This combination favors slow ripening, intensity and refined minerality in the grapes.

the wine range and style of the house

Hamilton Russell Vineyards limits production to two top wines: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Chardonnay series has become world-famous as a benchmark; tight, mineral, complex and ripe without losing the finesse of the fruit. The style has variations from fresh to wood-aged, always with a focus on terroir.

grapes, harvest and vinification of the 2023 chardonnay

The 2023 edition is 100% Chardonnay from our own vineyards with low yields (around 2.3 tons/ha). Due to a cold winter and harvested manually with three passes. The grapes were softly pressed; the must fermented and matured for nine months in French oak (300 liter barrels, 24% new, remainder in second and third filling), using fine yeasts (lees) for extra body. The alcohol is around 13.2%, the acidity over 6 g/l, pH 3.45.

color, aroma and taste of the 2023 chardonnay

In the glass the wine shows a pale golden colour with an attractive brightness. The nose combines green apple, lime, pear and subtle brioche notes with a chalky minerality. On the palate it is dry, tight and intense, with lively acidity, a textural body from lees maturation and a long, mineral finish.

what makes this chardonnay special

• The combination of cool coastal influences and soil structure provides pure minerality.

• Low yields enhance concentration and complexity.

• Nine months of maturation in French oak with coordinated use of wood combine finesse and structure.

• Perfect balance between citrus fruit, texture and length; a Chardonnay that charms now, but will also last for years to come.

Order wines from Hamilton Russell Vineyards online?

All wines from Hamilton Russell Vineyards are ready in our air-conditioned Wine Warehouse. Select 'Pick up' to see an attractive discount directly at the checkout page. Our location in Dordrecht, near the A16, offers ample parking. Click here for our address. The full reviews from international wine journalists such as Parker, Suckling and Vinous are freely accessible via the links next to the image on our website. Do you need help choosing the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier service - free for customers of Grandcruwijnen.

wine and food pairings for 2023 chardonnay

• Baked scallops with lemon cream sauce and parsley
  The creamy sauce supports the acidity, while the citronert freshness of the wine performs alongside the subtle seafood.

• Grilled chicken fillet with tarragon and celeriac puree
  The herbs are accentuated by the dry, minerally structure; the puree gives softness to the wine.

• Ravioli with pumpkin and sage butter
  Pumpkin provides a soft sweetness, sage adds complexity; the wine intervenes with acidity and mineral tension.

• Grilled langoustines with lime butter sauce
  The salty body of the shellfish complements the maritime minerality, while the butter and lime add freshness.

• Mushroom risotto with Parmesan cheese
  The earthiness of the mushrooms and the creaminess of the cheese are enhanced by the structure and length of the wine.

• Grilled vegetables (asparagus, zucchini) with goat cheese and fresh herbs
  The combination of fresh vegetables and soft cheese complements the citrus notes, texture and body of the wine.