Wildeberg is at the very beginning of an ancient story. As proud members of the Cape’s Old Vine Project (OVP), their mission is rooted in sourcing blocks of vineyard which deserve individual expression and deserve to be kept in the ground. As custodians of the land that yields the fruit of their wines, Wildeberg seek to become a more sustainable wine company with a lighter footprint on its precious soils.
The farm’s old stable block has been converted into a super-contemporary winery and the old barrel hall houses their slow ferments, dozing ahead of the next release. Wildeberg’s compact winemaking team is headed up by JD Rossouw, who grew up amongst the region’s ancient vineyards and works closely with the hugely experienced Ryno Booysen. Both are assisted by young assistant winemaker Cobus Coetzee and cellar hands, Jaquin Julies and Artmore Mazwidza.
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The focus of the Wildeberg portfolio continues to be the white and reds from its home valley, Terroirs Series from outstanding single blocks across the Cape, the Coterie wines portraying the country’s coastal region and Wild House, its naturally fermented house wines which open the door to the wider wine drinking market.
The below four wines are all chosen examples of the incredible variety of vineyards across the Western Cape and the balance and harmony that Wildeberg’s winemakers strive for in the cellar. All wines are from hand-picked fruit and fermented WILD.
1. The Coterie Chenin and Grenache Blanc 2021 is a rich, textural wine. Coterie means ‘a circle of friends with the same interests’. Its exotic jasmine notes would pair beautifully with Malay and Thai green fish curries or dishes with lemongrass and coriander. A simple braai-ed line fish would also be excellent.
2. Tea Leaf 2021 is a Chenin, Crouchen Blanc & Grenache Gris Blend. The name ‘Tea Leaf’ hails from the uniqueness of the vineyards where the grapes from these vines grow, amongst the native rooibos (red tea) plants that grow wild between the vines. The complex sandy stone fruit nose with notes of crushed granite pair well with fish dishes, scallops, salt & pepper squid or fishcakes, light seafood pasta, risotto, rich salads and sushi.
3. Coterie Sémillon Sauvignon Blanc 2020 is a brilliant, bright, grassy aromatic with an almost brittle, bony texture. A hint of lemongrass and freshly crushed bay allow this beauty to pair well with delicate fish, green vegetables and salads with mild vinaigrettes.
4. The Coterie Cabernet Franc, Malbec 2020 is a serious wine which has been Barrel fermented for 20 months. The blend is a textural, gently muscular expression of Cab Franc Malbec and will pair well with grilled meats especially lamb and spiced meat dishes.
Cost:
- Coterie Chenin and Grenache Blanc 2021, RSP: R170
- Tea Leaf 2021, RSP: R121
- Coterie Sémillon Sauvignon Blanc 2020, RSP: R170
- Coterie Cabernet Franc, Malbec 2020, RSP: R170
In addition to excellent wines, The Wildeberg Manor House also doubles as a function venue, boasting the most mesmerising views and complimented by service from staff that truly care. The panoramic scenic beauty is awe-inspiring, making Wildeberg the perfect venue for celebrations, events and overnight getaways.
When purchasing wine or booking accommodation, remember to ask about the Wildeberg Friends Club, which is an exciting new extension for the small farm family. This exclusive wine club subscription grants its members first access to new vintages, limited releases, special bottlings and access to the winemaking team.
Come and experience the mountain, wines and genuinely good people at Wildeberg. A place to which good things come and from which great things flow.
For more information and to make a reservation contact Lin-Mari on 079 843 0682 or [email protected]. You can also visit www.wildeberg.co.za.
- Location: Verdun Road, Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa
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