Storm Vrede Chardonnay 2024 (Christian Eedes 96/100)

Grapes from a Hemel-en-Aarde Valley vineyard planted in 2015. Matured for 11 months in 228-litre barrels, 31% new. Lemon and orange to the fore, with subtle struck-match reduction and hints of vanilla and spice on the nose. The palate shows remarkable power despite an alcohol of just 12.71% – dense, compact fruit offset by acidity that can only be described as thrillingly sour, the finish long and savoury. Lovely texture and impressive layering of flavour.

CE’s rating: 96/100.

Storm Vrede Chardonnay 2024
Wine of Origin Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
Production 365 cases (of 12). Release date April 2025.

Vrede Chardonnay – or Peace Chardonnay – hails from a northeast-facing slope in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley with low-vigour, stony, clay-rich Bokkeveld shale soil.

“A wine of tension and concentration. Lemongrass, basil stem, lime and concentrated white stone fruit flavours. Absolutely world class.”

#Heemel