Waterkloof Astraeus Chardonnay Brut Reserve MCC

The Producer

Waterkloof Estate sits high on the Schapenberg slopes of Somerset West, where biodynamic farming meets gravity-flow winemaking in one of the Cape’s most striking cellars. Founded by Paul Boutinot, Waterkloof farms organically and biodynamically — Percheron horses work the vineyards, cover crops flourish between the rows, and no synthetic chemicals touch the soil. The Astraeus range takes its name from the Greek Titan of dusk and the stars, a nod to the celestial rhythms that guide biodynamic viticulture. These Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wines are crafted from cool-climate Elgin Valley fruit, where the long, slow ripening season produces grapes of exceptional finesse and natural acidity — ideal for world-class bubbles.

Vintage & Terroir

The Chardonnay for this Brut Reserve MCC is sourced from an organically farmed vineyard in the Elgin Valley, one of the coolest wine-growing regions in the Cape. Ancient Table Mountain sandstone soils deliver a firm mineral backbone, while the maritime climate — with cooling breezes rolling in from False Bay — allows a long, gentle ripening period. This preserves the grape’s natural acidity and builds layers of flavour complexity. As a non-vintage cuvée, the winemaker blends across vintages to maintain a consistently refined house style with exceptional depth.

In the Cellar

The Chardonnay grapes are gently whole-bunch pressed and fermented using indigenous wild yeast in seasoned French oak barrels, allowing subtle toasty complexity to develop alongside the fruit’s natural character. After primary fermentation, the wine undergoes extended lees ageing to build richness and texture. Traditional méthode cap classique secondary fermentation takes place in bottle with champagne yeast, followed by prolonged ageing on the lees. This extended tirage — significantly longer than the Rosé — develops the deep biscuity, brioche character that defines a true Brut Reserve. The wine rests after disgorgement to achieve full harmony before release.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Brilliant pale gold with a fine, persistent mousse and elegant bead.
Nose: Enticing aromas of freshly baked brioche, toasted almond, and ripe stone fruit — peach and nectarine — layered with hints of green apple and citrus blossom.
Palate: Rich yet beautifully balanced, with creamy biscuit notes, ripe stone fruit, and zesty green apple. The mousse is silky and refined, with a taut mineral thread and vibrant natural acidity that keeps everything lively and focused.
Finish: Long and layered, with lingering biscuit, toasted hazelnut, and a clean citrus lift on the close.

Food Pairing

This Brut Reserve MCC is a celebration wine that pairs beautifully with lobster thermidor, pan-seared linefish with beurre blanc, or a classic eggs Benedict brunch. Equally stunning alongside aged Gruyère, mushroom risotto, or simply on its own as a luxurious apéritif. Serve well chilled at 6–8°C in a tulip or flute glass.

Technical Details

Our Guarantee

Every bottle of Waterkloof Astraeus Chardonnay Brut Reserve MCC is backed by our 100% Happiness Assured! Guarantee. If you’re not completely delighted with this biodynamic bubbly, get in touch and we’ll make it right — no fuss, no fine print, just great wine and happy customers.