Whalehaven was recently featured in the Swedish wine magazine Vin & Bar in an editorial written by Swedish wine writer Fredrik Schelin, highlighting the character of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley and Whalehaven’s cool-climate approach to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
In the feature, Schelin describes Whalehaven as “a small but ambitious boutique producer” and reflects on the Atlantic influence, elegance, and quiet refinement that define Whalehaven’s wines.
Shared below is an English translation and adaptation of the original Swedish article.
WHALEHAVEN WINES
Hemel-en-Aarde, the valley just above Hermanus, is one of South Africa’s most respected terroirs for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The cool maritime climate, stony soils, and constant fresh Atlantic breeze create perfect conditions for grapes that thrive in cooler growing regions. In the heart of this landscape lies Whalehaven Winery, a small but ambitious boutique producer that succeeds in combining precision, elegance, and craftsmanship in a way that makes the winery something of a hidden gem.
Whalehaven was founded in 1995 and is one of the region’s oldest privately owned wineries. The philosophy is simple yet thoughtful, with careful selection and a clear focus on style and purity. The winery works with great attention to preserving freshness and expressing the terroir in every grape, whether it is the elegant Chardonnay or the softly structured Pinot Noir wines.
Schelin describes a visit to Whalehaven as having a tranquil, almost poetic atmosphere. Located just minutes from the ocean, the winery is shaped by the cool coastal air that influences the wines. He notes that the Chardonnay carries a mineral-driven character reminiscent of sea spray and white stone fruit, while the Pinot Noir reveals dark cherries, silky tannins, and subtle spice.
Reflecting on his personal connection to the region, Schelin recalls the many times he has travelled through the valley on visits to Hermanus and along the coastline before days spent wine tasting. He describes Hemel-en-Aarde as a place where “the Atlantic is always present,” adding that Whalehaven feels like “a natural part of that journey” – a place where time moves a little slower and where the wines reflect the quiet elegance that defines the region.
Whalehaven continues to evolve and has in recent years steadily elevated its quality. The wines show a balance between fruit, structure, and terroir, while maintaining a sense of craftsmanship and small-scale production. Schelin concludes by describing Whalehaven as “a producer that deserves more attention” and one likely to become an increasingly important name in the Hemel-en-Aarde region.
Featured in Vin & Bar
Alongside the feature, Fredrik Schelin specifically highlighted the Whalehaven Terroir Series Mountain Stone Pinot Noir 2023, an elegant, cool-climate Pinot Noir with a distinct sense of origin. The nose and palate offer red cherries, raspberries and cranberries, complemented by subtle notes of forest floor, herbs and a gentle spice. Fine acidity, silky tannins and excellent balance create a nuanced wine with length and finesse. Serve slightly chilled with poultry, light meat dishes or vegetarian dishes featuring mushrooms.
The Pinot Noir, among other Whalehaven wines, is available in Sweden through Whalehaven’s Swedish importer, Ward Wines.