Creation wines

Nestled on the prestigious Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge—one of the world's most biodiverse and pristine wine regions, just 8 kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean—Creation embodies the vision of Swiss cellarmaster Jean-Claude Martin and his wife Carolyn Martin (née Finlayson), who hails from a celebrated South African wine family. Since planting their first vines in 2002, they have crafted compelling cool-climate wines, particularly their Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. Their son Glenn represents the fourth generation of winemakers in both distinguished family traditions.

Jean-Claude's gentle, non-interventionist methods preserve terroir character while creating wines of rare balance, elegance and distinction. The 450-million-year-old Bokkeveld shale and 590 million-year-old Quartzite soils, combined with cool maritime conditions, produce world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as seen in the results on international blind tastings in Decanter, amongst others.

Working exclusively with virus-free vineyard material between 240 and 300 metres elevation, Creation's 65 hectares of vines benefit from cool maritime conditions and a 12°C cool night index that ensures optimal acid retention and flavour development. Jean-Claude believes a dedicated viticultural team that prunes, suckers and picks the grapes is critical to their success, and that the quality of their viticulture and grapes helps them produce exceptional wines. This unique combination now represents a mother block for South African viticulture, while dedicating 15 hectares to preserving the natural biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom - a testament to Jean-Claude's pioneering and innovative vision, meticulous standards, and commitment to environmental stewardship.