Lourensford Estate, established in the year 1700 and once part of Willem Adriaan van der Stel's Vergelegen, is arguably one of the most beautiful wine estates in the world. Steeped in history and heritage, the estate also boasts an ultra-modern winery utilising technology unique in the Southern Hemisphere. The magnificent soils and diverse micro-climates create the ideal terroir for world-beating wines. Lourensford is fast-becoming one of the sought after wine estates in South Africa, with over 130 hectares of vines already planted.
Purchased from David Gant (of well-known Gant's Fruits), the estate became the second magnificent winelands property to be owned by Dr. Christo Wiese, Cape industrialist and retail magnate. After purchasing the property in 1998, Dr. Wiese set his mind to making it one of the premier wine estates in South Africa. The first plantings of vines began in 2000 and the construction of the unique winery began in 2002 and was completed in record time. The first wines were vinified in 2003. Keep an eye out for our brands (Winemaker's Selection, Lourensford, River Garden) at your local wine merchant.
Other than 135 hectares of quality vineyards, the estate also produce apples, pears and plums in abundance.The property spans 4000 hectares of earth, bordered by the significant mountain ranges of the Helderberg and Hottentots Holland and 8 km from the ocean, all of which combine to give us the luxury of choice when it comes to picking the perfect terroir for planting. Lourensford has almost 200 hectares under fruit, all of which is packed in our very own packshed that also packs fruit from other producers in Southern Africa. Our beautiful mountain slopes are covered by our pine plantations, spanning approximately 900 hectares. We also cultivate trout. That goes to stock our exclusive fly-fishing club. People drive from afar to come and stock up on their coffee from the roastery on site and also enjoy the delicious meals on offer at our Millhouse Kitchen restaurant.
Lourensford's scenic beauty has played host to many local and international film shoots, starring some of Hollywood's top actors. Not only do we also host annual sports and cultural events with thousands of participants and spectators, but many a wedding reception and corporate function has been held on the estate. There is a sizeable equestrian establishment on the estate, with stabling as well as one of the only two polo fields in Cape Town.
Please be welcome on our estate, and enjoy it with us.