Terroir
The farm consists of low potential vertical shale soils, also known as Schist. The sedimentary layers of shale lie vertically. This allows for the soils to drain well. 300 mm of topsoil, a thin layer of clay and then the vertical shale. The small amount of clay between the topsoil and shale helps to retain moisture.
The preparation of the soil before planting is critical to allow the roots to grow – The shale needs to be broken up so it can drain all excess winter water away from the vines.
The water retention of shale soils is quite low. This offers tremendous advantages for quality grapes in that we can only irrigate each block when we require growth, or restrict the moisture in the soil to produce small fully concentrated berries and bunches.
Vineyards
We have two types of vines here. Bush vines, producing low tonnage, fully concentrated grapes. As well as open trellis vines producing very fruity grapes.
We believe that good wines start in the vineyards and we are also passionate about giving back to nature. This is one of the reasons why we farm our vines completely organic.
We have different methods we use to add nutrients back to the soil which, in turn, positively affects the vines. Some of these methods include planting cover crops and using mulch below the vines.
Harvest
Harvested at night and all by hand, harvest time usually begins around late January, early February and carries on until March.
The average temperature in these times can range from mid thirthies to low forties. For this reason we harvest at night. The cooler evening temperatures are much better for our dedicated harvest team as well as the grapes themselves. They help the grapes retain freshness and flavour as they reach our cellar.
Starting at 22:00 and ending at around 06:00 the following morning, all bunches are hand picked, hand sorted and then transported to our cellar for processing.
Cellar
Our cellar was designed in 1999 by the legendary winemaker Gunter Brozel, who had retired from Nederburg after 33 years. The shape of the cellar resembles our logo.
This is where the magic happens. Our cellar is situated just next to the hotel and overlooks the farm and vineyards.
We try and interfere with the wine as little as possible. We strive for easy, clean ferments with as little additives as possible to truly showcase our soil and vineyards.
Our Winemaker
Adriaan Jacobs is the man creating the magic. He joined the team in 2022 and has since shown his true passion for wines and winemaking.
He loves working with nature and this was the main reason he first explored the art of winemaking. Adriaan is well traveled and has experienced different wine cultures from all around the world.
He is a great team leader and is not afraid to get his hands dirty. He has some exciting things planned for our wine in vintages to come.
Wine Tastings
Join us for a very personal wine tasting experience where you will learn more about the wine and how we make it.
You will be able to taste our range and really experience the passion and craftsmanship that goes into making these wines.
Wine tastings are held on the terrace at our hotel, overlooking the vineyards and farm or in our wine lounge on the colder days.
Bookings are recommended.
Cellar Tours
Join us for a special wine cellar tour where we show you where the magic happens.
Visitors are given the opportunity to see the ins and outs of our cellar and learn more about how we make our wine and what sets us apart from the rest. The tour will be done personally by members of our cellar team.
The tour will be followed by a unique tasting experience in the cellar.
Tours are by appointment only. Please enquire in advance.
Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes.
Cost: R350 per person