TROPHY AT THE INTERNATIONAL WINE CHALLENGE,
HEMEL-EN-AARDE VALLEY, HIGHEST SCORE OF 96 POINTS
Hermanus, South Africa, May 2024
Whalehaven is delighted to announce its remarkable success at the prestigious International Wine Challenge (IWC), where its 2023 Whalehaven Seascape Chardonnay secured an exceptional 96 points and a gold medal, securing the podium as the highest scoring wine from South Africa at this esteemed competition and the Hemel-en-Aarde Trophy.
The Whalehaven Seascape Reserve 2023 emerged as one of 15 golds in total bestowed on South African wine and one of only two wines from South Africa to achieve the score of 96 points, the highest rating awarded to wines from South Africa at this year’s IWC.
The esteemed panel of judges at the International Wine Challenge remarked on the 2023 Whalehaven Seascape Reserve for its captivating aromas of acacia, honeysuckle, and orange zest, leading into an exquisitely structured palate enriched with nutty nuances and luscious green fig flavours. The wine culminates with a refreshing finish, showcasing its impeccable balance and finesse.
The International Wine Challenge stands as the world’s foremost and meticulously judged global wine competition, now celebrating its 40th year. Renowned for its impartiality and rigorous evaluation process, the IWC assesses each wine ‘blind,’ ensuring an unbiased assessment of its adherence to style, region, and vintage. The IWC, with its panel of 500 international wine experts, attracts thousands of wines from 38 countries.
“We are immensely humbled by this achievement and proud to have received this award and are thankful to Richard Kershaw (MW) and the winemaking team who are shaping the direction of Whalehaven’s terroir series and reserve wines, with a special emphasis on our signature mineral-driven Chardonnays. We are committed to crafting wines of exceptional quality that authentically showcase the unique terroir of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. The outstanding achievement at the International Wine Challenge underscores our relentless pursuit of excellence in producing Chardonnays that embody the mineralogy and freshness of our cool-climate appellation.” – Silvana Bottega.
For more information or collateral: kaylee@bottegafamilywine.co.za | +27 21 8523590
WHALEHAVEN ACTIVITIES
EXPLORE
THE VALLEY
Nestled at the foot of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Whalehaven Winery and Tasting Room offers a perfect starting point for an unforgettable adventure through one of South Africa's most stunning wine regions. To truly experience the valley’s unique terroir and explore the diverse flavors from its boutique wineries, embark on a HOP-ON HOP-OFF safari-style wine tour.
This one-of-a-kind experience invites you to hop between wineries at your own pace, all while taking in the breathtaking beauty of the valley. Our fleet of safari-style vehicles adds a distinctively South African touch, creating an immersive journey through world-class vineyards, each offering their own interpretation of the Hemel-en-Aarde terroir. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable escape, this tour offers the perfect blend of exceptional wines and the stunning landscapes that define the valley. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley in a way that’s as unforgettable as the wines themselves!
Alberto Bottega, founder of Bottega Family Wines that owns Whalehaven, has been a long-time investor in the area since the early 90s. He kindly invested in the Wine Hoppers to support local employment and enhance wine tourism, all while showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.
VISIT OUR WINERY
R43, Hemel-en-Aarde Road,
Hermanus, South Africa
CONTACT US
+27(0)28 050 1301
experience@whalehaven.co.za
OPENING TIMES
Mon - Fri 9:30 - 17:00
Sat - Sun 10:30 - 16:30