The vineyards are planted on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain
between 300 m and 600 m above sea level. These elevated vineyards
naturally are cooler and have the benefit of direct sea breezes off
False Bay.The soils are fairly homogenous throughout the farm. Deep,
fertile clay based soils originating from decomposed shale and granite,
provide an excellent medium within which to grow our vines. Drainage is
excellent due to adequate pebble and stone distribution, and moisture
retention is promoted by the fairly high clay levels in our soils.
The
directly cooling effect of the South-Easterly and South-Westerly winds
off False Bay reduce our temperatures during the ripening period. The
advantage of this cooling effect is a prolonged ripening period
resulting in high grape sugars, concentrated varietal aromas, colour,
acids and tannins.
Our viticultural practices are applied to not
only influence quality of grapes, but also to manipulate aromas, sugars
and acid levels. Every aspect of our farming operation is based on an
environmentally friendly philosophy. Wildlife is protected, fynbos is
rehabilitated and fungicidal sprays are reduced to the minimum levels.
Our winemaking philosophy is based on our viticultural strengths.