Rupert & Rothschild Baroness Nadine 2023

Winery Background and History

Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons is a collaboration between South Africa’s Rupert family and France’s Rothschild family. The venture was established in 1997 to combine South African terroir with Bordeaux/Rothschild wine philosophy and technical precision. The “Baroness Nadine” label is their single-varietal Chardonnay, honoring Baroness Nadine de Rothschild. The brand emphasizes elegance and purity in its white wine expression.

Producer and Winemaker

Baroness Nadine Chardonnay is made by Rupert & Rothschild’s winemaking team (current winemakers including Yvonne Lester) at their estate in Paarl / Franschhoek, applying careful vineyard selection, gentle handling, and balanced oak use to preserve fruit character while adding complexity.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from selected vineyard blocks in the Western Cape region of South Africa. The climate is Mediterranean-influenced: warm days and cooler nights, allowing grapes to ripen while maintaining acidity and aromatic freshness. Soils are well-drained, often decomposed granite or shale, enabling root depth and minerality.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The Chardonnay is fermented and matured using a mix of vessels and oak. According to the 2023 fact sheet, portions of fermentation and aging are done in various vessels including concrete, foudres, and 300 L oak barrels, with a fraction of barrels being new. The approach blends different textures to support both freshness and complexity. 

Tasting Notes

The wine shows a white gold / pale straw colour. Aromas include mandarin orange, orange blossom, passion fruit, subtle vanilla, and hints of oak.  On the palate, there is crisp minerality, tropical fruit notes (passionfruit, citrus), and a creamy mid-palate with balanced oak presence. The finish is fresh, lingering and elegant. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with grilled crayfish or prawns, lobster, shellfish, creamy seafood sauces, scallops, and white meats. Also suits dishes with citrus, herbs, or light cream sauces.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled, around 8-10 °C. Use a white wine glass that allows aromatics to develop. No decanting is necessary, but letting the wine breathe for a few minutes in glass helps open it.

Storage and Aging Potential

Best enjoyed within 5–7 years of vintage. Under good cellar conditions (cool, stable, low light), it may maintain freshness and evolve tertiary notes like nut and honey.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5 %