Paul Wallace Wines – Elgin Chardonnay, Family Roots and a New Chapter in South African Wine

There’s something quietly compelling about Elgin. Long known for apples and pears rather than wine, it’s now one of South Africa’s most exciting cool-climate regions – and Paul Wallace Wines sits right at the heart of that shift.

This is a proper family story. One built on belief, patience, and a willingness to back a place before the rest of the world caught on.

From Orchards to Vines

Back in 2003, Paul and Nicky Wallace made a bold move. They left Cape Town behind and bought a 25-hectare farm in Elgin, at a time when the region was still better known for fruit orchards than fine wine.

Armed with Paul’s deep viticultural knowledge – and a strong sense that Elgin had more to offer – they began pulling out apple trees and planting vines.

Today, around half the farm is under vine, planted with varieties that thrive in Elgin’s cool climate:

• Sauvignon Blanc
• Chardonnay
• Pinot Noir
• Malbec
• Cabernet Franc

The transformation has been gradual, but purposeful. And it’s still evolving – with the final few hectares of land apparently still up for debate at the Wallace dinner table.

A Family at the Core

Paul remains rooted in the vineyards, while Nicky brings a retail and commercial eye to the running of the business. Together, they’ve built the foundation.

Now, the next chapter is being written by their son, Bobby Wallace.

As head winemaker, Bobby is shaping the future of Paul Wallace Wines – while also building a reputation of his own through his Off The Record project.

Bobby Wallace – Experience Meets Energy

Before returning to the family farm, Bobby spent years as winemaker at Iona – one of Elgin’s benchmark producers. For many, Iona Chardonnay set the standard for what the region could achieve.

Now, that experience feeds directly into the wines at Paul Wallace.

Alongside this, Bobby has also been developing Off The Record Wines, a small-batch project started with his brother. What began as a side project has quickly gathered momentum, earning praise for its characterful, site-driven wines – including a standout Syrah described by British Master of Wine Tim Atkin as:

“One of those serendipitous discoveries that puts a smile on your face for the rest of the day…”

It’s clear that Bobby brings both technical skill and creative energy – a combination that’s starting to turn heads.

Featured Wine: Paul Wallace “Reflections” Elgin Chardonnay 2023

If you want to understand what Paul Wallace Wines are all about, this is the place to start.

Reflections Chardonnay 2023 (£26) is a brilliant example of modern Elgin Chardonnay – combining freshness, texture and depth in a way that feels both polished and effortlessly drinkable.

What does Paul Wallace Chardonnay taste like?

• Zippy yellow apple, lemon and lime on the nose
• A move into toasted pineapple and gentle oak warmth
• A clean, fresh finish that keeps you coming back for another sip

It’s barrel fermented and aged in oak (with a portion of new oak), giving it weight and texture without losing that hallmark Elgin brightness.

The result is a Chardonnay that feels:

• Intense but balanced
• Layered yet precise
• Fresh, long and quietly complex

For those familiar with Elgin wines, it’s hard not to draw comparisons to Iona Chardonnay at its best – and, arguably, this takes things a step further.

Meet the Winemakers in Didsbury

We’re delighted to be welcoming both Angus Paul and Bobby Wallace to our West Didsbury shop for a special South African wine tasting.

This is a rare chance to:

• Taste a range of wines from two exciting producers
• Explore the differences between Stellenbosch and Elgin
• Hear directly from the winemakers themselves

Wines on the night include:

• Paul Wallace Reflections Chardonnay – £26 (in stock)
• Off The Record Syrah – £34
• Off The Record Cabernet Franc – £34
• Paul Wallace Black Dog Malbec – £29

Alongside a selection of Angus Paul wines, giving a brilliant snapshot of modern South African winemaking.

Reserve your space - book tickets now

Why Elgin Matters

Elgin’s cool climate is what makes all of this possible.

Slower ripening allows grapes to retain natural acidity while building flavour complexity. The result is wines that feel more restrained, more expressive, and often more food-friendly than warmer-climate styles.

In the hands of producers like Paul Wallace, that translates into wines with:

• Bright, natural freshness
• Clear fruit definition
• Subtle oak integration
• A strong sense of place

It’s a region that’s still evolving – but increasingly hard to ignore.

Off The Record – A Project Gaining Momentum

Alongside the main estate wines, Bobby Wallace’s Off The Record project is quickly building a following.

What started as an after-hours experiment – sourcing small parcels of Chenin Blanc – has grown into something with real momentum. Limited releases, thoughtful vineyard sourcing, and a no-compromise approach have given the wines a near cult status.

Now expanding beyond Chenin Blanc into Syrah and Cabernet Franc, the project reflects Bobby’s fascination with site and style – and a desire to push boundaries without losing balance.

Discover More South African Wine

South Africa continues to be one of the most exciting wine-producing countries in the world right now – blending heritage, innovation and incredible value.

Explore more from this dynamic region here:
Discover South African Wine

The Reserve Take

A proper family operation, a clear sense of place, and a new generation pushing things forward.

Paul Wallace Wines feels like one of those producers quietly building something special – and with Bobby now fully involved, it’s only going in one direction.

Upwards.