Bartinney Hourglass Chardonnay 2023
OVERVIEW
Discover the Bartinney Hourglass Chardonnay 2023, Bartinney’s limited-release, small-batch flagship Chardonnay from the upper slopes of the Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
The wine takes its name from a planting of estate Chardonnay naturally shaped like an hourglass. Used to “measure the passage of time”, the hourglass is an ode to patience. The result is a wine that is rich and penetrating, with a fine, subtle creaminess offset by fresh citrus minerality.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Perfect for wine lovers who appreciate refined, Burgundian-style Chardonnay.
Ideal for:
- Collectors of small-production South African wines
- Gourmet dining and special occasions
- Chardonnay enthusiasts seeking complexity and ageing potential
A Chardonnay for serious enthusiasts and collectors.
TASTING NOTES
Appearance:
Pale gold with crystalline brightness.
Aromas:
A concentrated, layered nose of ripe yellow citrus with subtle nuances of roasted cashews.
Palate:
Rich and penetrating; a bold oak structure contributes notes of crème brûlée and toasted brioche alongside fresh citrus minerality.
Texture:
A fine, subtle creaminess balanced by tension and minerality.
Finish:
Creamy and lingering, refocusing attention on the wine’s expansive fruit.
FOOD PAIRING
Pairs beautifully with:
- Seared scallops
- Lobster in lemon-butter sauce
- Creamy chicken with thyme
- Rich mushroom and truffle pasta
Serve at 10–12°C in a large-bowled Chardonnay glass to fully express its character.
SERVING TIPS & DETAILS
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Serving Temperature: 10–12°C
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Ideal Drinking Window: Excellent ageing potential; enjoy now or cellar for further development
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Glass Type: Large-bowled Chardonnay glass
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Alcohol: 13.5%
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Origin: Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Variety: 100% Chardonnay
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Vineyard: Estate Chardonnay on steep north to north-east slopes at 400–550 m above sea level; Bartinney’s first and highest plantings, established in 1990
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Soil Type: Oakleaf and Tukulu
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Vinification: Each batch picked at full ripeness, crushed and settled for 2 days before going to barrel; a portion undergoes spontaneous malolactic fermentation
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Maturation: About 11 months in 225L oak barrels (up to 50% new), with very light “blond” toast and extra-tight grain
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Production: Limited release, small batch
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Storage: Store horizontally in a cool, dark place
ACCOLADES AND REVIEWS
⭐ Vivino Rating: 4.3/5
Bartinney’s Chardonnays regularly receive 4.5 to 5 Platter’s Wine Guide stars.
Celebrated as a versatile, food-friendly wine with a long finish and excellent ageing potential.
FAQ's
Is it oaked?
Yes. It matures for about 11 months in 225L oak barrels with a very light toast, adding creaminess and brioche notes without masking the fruit.
Is it dry or sweet?
It is a dry Chardonnay.
Can it age?
Yes. It has excellent ageing potential.
What makes it unique?
It comes from a single hourglass-shaped block of estate Chardonnay and is made in very limited quantities.
What foods does it pair best with?
Scallops, lobster, creamy chicken dishes and mushroom or truffle pasta pair exceptionally well.
Is it suitable for gifting?
Absolutely. As a limited-release flagship, it is one of Bartinney’s most prestigious wines.
