Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay is an iconic, deeply complex, and world-class white wine produced in the historic Simonsberg ward of Stellenbosch, South Africa. Rustenberg Estate, established in 1682, is celebrated as one of the Cape's premier wine properties, renowned for its heritage and mastery of cool-climate viticulture. Named in honour of five stone pine trees that stand sentry over the vineyard block, this flagship Chardonnay represents the absolute pinnacle of white winemaking on the estate, offering profound concentration, multi-layered texture, and remarkable aging potential.

Why You'll Love It

This wine stands out for its monumental depth, majestic structure, and seamless fusion of Burgundian winemaking philosophy with unique South African terroir. Sourced from a single, low-yielding vineyard block planted on weathered granite soils at high altitude, the grapes benefit from cooling mountain shadows and ocean breezes. Barrel-fermented and aged with meticulous care in new French oak casks, it delivers an opulent profile of ripe yellow peach, toasted hazelnuts, citrus oils, and brioche, supported by a razor-sharp spine of freshness.

Vineyard & Production

The grapes are hand-harvested from the estate's finest, oldest Chardonnay block during the cool morning hours. Upon arrival at the cellar, the whole bunches are gently pressed, and the unclarified juice is transferred directly to new French oak barriques for spontaneous wild yeast fermentation. The wine undergoes regular battonage (lees stirring) over several months to build luxurious mid-palate weight and creaminess, followed by extended maturation in oak prior to careful barrel selection and bottling.

Tasting Notes

In the glass, it displays a radiant, brilliant golden-straw colour. The nose is opulent, highly expressive, and captivating, opening with aromas of ripe peach, baked pear, and Meyer lemon curd, interwoven with sophisticated nuances of roasted hazelnuts, vanilla pod, toasted brioche, and wet stone minerality. On the palate, it is full-bodied, unctuous, and beautifully structured, delivering rich stone fruit and citrus flavours balanced by a vibrant, refreshing beam of acidity that extends into a long, savoury, and persistent finish.

Perfect Pairings

With its luxurious texture, vibrant acidity, and complex spice profile, this flagship Stellenbosch Chardonnay is an exceptional partner for fine dining. It pairs magnificently with pan-seared scallops with browned butter, roasted chicken with creamy tarragon sauce, grilled lobster, and pork belly with apple reduction. It is also an extraordinary match for wild mushroom risotto, rich duck breast, and mature hard cheeses such as Comté, Gruyère, or aged Cheddar.

Grape Varieties

100% Chardonnay

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