Warwick Estate's The First Lady Chardonnay is a classic example of a well-crafted South African Chardonnay. It boasts a beautiful, pale golden color with hints of green. The nose is filled with aromas of lemon zest, pear, and citrus blossom that perfectly balance the oak-derived vanilla and toast accents. On the palate, it is rich and creamy with flavors of ripe white peaches, granny smith apples, and a hint of honey. The bright acidity provides a refreshing finish that lingers on your palate. This wine pairs perfectly with seafood and poultry dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a delightful evening drink.

Tasting Notes

An intriguing bouquet of fruit on the palate that keeps you sipping. Yellow apple and pear flavours are prominent, with more restrained notes of yellow loquat and lime. Textured with a palate filling creamy texture and a fresh zesty finish.

About the Winery

In 1771, the Warwick Estate was established in the great wine region of Stellenbosch in South Africa. However, the estate came to be known internationally for its winemaking potential only during 1964. During this time Stan and Norma Radcliffe purchased the estate and started planting international and Bordeaux-style of vines here, such as, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Over the next years, Norma Radcliffe shot up to prominence in the winemaking scene in South Africa. She was recognised as one of the most talented female winemakers in the Cape Town region. Even today, the estate releases a range of wines in her honour, known as the First Lady Range. Planting of vines was done in 1984 and the grapes are currently grown in two vineyards, such as the following:

Warwick Estate

The vines are planted here at altitudes ranging from 220m to 340m above sea level. They are known for their Oakleaf and Tukulu soil types. The climatic conditions, soil qualities and the natural location of this place make it ideal for growing varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Pinotage and Chardonnay. These vineyards comprise an area of 40 hectares.

Uitkyk Estate

Located on 80 hectares, this wine estate has vines planted at altitudes ranging from 200m to 380m above sea level. With its unique Oakleaf soil quality, this estate is blessed with naturally-rich conditions to favour varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Pinotage.

These vineyards are planted on the Simonsberg Mountain Range slopes, which gives the vines good exposure to cool breezes during spring and summer. Many plots have been identified here with unique soil types, that make it ideal for growing different varietals within the same territory. The vineyards located towards the south and southwestern slopes of the Simonsberg Mountains produce some of South Africa’s best Cabernet Franc grapes.

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