Schultz Heldervue Chardonnay 2025

Rudi Schultz, long-time winemaker at Thelema in Stellenbosch, has been making his own wines under Schultz Family Wines since 2022. From 2025, it becomes a proper family operation, with his recently qualified son Michael joining him in the cellar. Together they’ve introduced a new ultra-premium tier, starting with this Chardonnay (R650) from a CY 277-planted site on the western side of the Helderberg, just 4km from False Bay. Proximity to the ocean and strong prevailing winds help moderate ripening, preserving acidity while allowing full flavour development.

Matured for 10 months in 228-litre barrels, 15% new oak. The wine trades on linearity and tension. Aromatics of blossom, pear, peach, lime and green apple, with a faint nutty edge. The palate is pure, fresh and pithy, defined by restraint and focus. Already drinking beautifully, it nevertheless has the balance to mature with benefit. Alc: 12.8%.

CE’s rating: 95 | Serious