Vineyard plantings in South Africa date back to when the first vines were planted and wine was made in 1659 in Constantia. Since then, the area under vines has spread across the Western Cape and further north in South Africa. Our terrior is unique because most wine regions are located close to the coast and influenced by the cold Atlantic- and warm Indian oceans. We have a Mediterranean climate with long, warm summers to ensure optimum ripeness of the grapes.

Diverse soil types are found and used for grape production, but most of them have a good water retention capacity, although they still drain well. There is usually at least 25% clay present in most soils used for grape production, and low pH’s are also common (normally adjusted by adding calcium).

Three most important soil types for our vineyards are soils like Oakleaf which is derived from granite with good physical properties and water retention. Other common soils are Glenrosa and Swartland which are derived from shale and have strong structures with good reserves.

We believe in the art of blending, and blending already happens in the vineyards when the combination of different soil types and micro climates come together and form the unique fruit flavours in the grapes we harvest.