Gabrielskloof

Overberg – between Hemel-en-Aarde and Walker Bay – is an emerging region in the Cape. Indeed, when Bernhard Heyns first bought land here in 2001 it was home not to vines but wheat fields and sheep. But, with that land situated on undulating hills around the Bot River, Heyns was convinced he had found somewhere special – and time has proved him right. Southerly winds race in off the Atlantic Ocean, putting the vines under constant stress. This, in turn, means lower yields and greater flavour concentration in the grapes.

The vines are predominantly grown on two soil types, Bokkeveld shale and sandstone. Blending components from the two terroirs adds complexity, while biodiversity is encouraged. Heynes treats his vines with the care of a parent ministering to their new-born infant. Farming is fully sustainable, and the estate uses no herbicides or pesticides. The selection includes the affordable Gabrielskloof Range, the Landscape Series, focusing on old vines, and the Project selection, where the winemakers get creative with whole-bunch Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc wild-fermented in amphora.