It is a unique and mysterious combination of extreme conditions and hardened landscapes that brings to life the distinct qualities and characters of Strandveld grapes. Constant gusts of Atlantic sea wind contribute to a relatively cooler climate in the Elim ward – and it is these same persistent cooling winds that aid in disease prevention by keeping the grapes dry, allowing for extended ripening periods and consequently keeping the yields low. The result? Small, intensely flavoured berries with great winemaking potential.

Our soils are classified as shallow to medium deep duplex soils which, whilst relatively poor in nutrients, are rich in minerals that contribute to the distinctive characteristics of the Strandveld Vineyards wines.

Layers of shale toward Elim add intense flintiness while iron-rich and granular “Koffieklip”, found closer to the ocean, gives rise to rich complexity. Red and yellow Ferricrete dominate on cooler, South facing slopes for heat sensitive cultivars like Sauvignon blanc, while a single block of white quartzite gravel soil is used to produce the grapes for our Strandveld Vineyards Syrah.

The Strandveld Vineyards span 69 hectares of Cape Agulhas, with an approximate annual rainfall of 450 mm and colder average temperatures this cool climate lends itself to Sauvignon blanc as the dominant white varietal with smaller blocks of Semillon and Viognier. Red varietals include Shiraz and Pinot noir interspersed with pockets of Grenache and Mourvèdre.

“The decidedly cool Elim, near Cape Agulhas, is clearly capable of making notably fine Sauvignon Blancs.” Jancis Robinson MW