Plettenberg Bay Wine Route
Plettenberg Bay has recently become home to a number of new wine farms. With many more on the horizon, it seems like Plett will soon be a “sparkling” wine destination for wine fundi’s and connoisseurs alike.
bramon wine estate
Heading the pioneering of wine farms in the Plettenberg Bay region is Bramon Wine Estate. Peter and Caroline Thorpe have truly outdone themselves as not only have they released an array of extremely successful wines but have also been an inspiration and role model for the establishment of other wine farms in the area.
Named after their two children Bram and Manon, this estate is now the proud owner of15 ha of vines,consisting mostly of Sauvignon Blanc, as well as Weisser Rieslingand Chardonnay. Dreaming big seems to be characteristic for Bramon as Pinot noir vines were a recent addition to their vineyard.A new member of this dynamic duo is winemaker Anton Smal, who made the MCC and the first ‘still’ Sauvignon Blanc for Bramon. As the popularity of Bramon’s wine is at an all-time high, it has been necessary to expand, resulting in a 250 ton cellar being built as well as an experimental block erected to trial other varieties including Malbec, Sangiovese, Pinotage, Pinot noir and Shiraz. With wine being produced on the estate, along with supporting other vineyards through buying grapes from local farms, there seems to be no stopping this dynamic duo.
Gilbrook Wine Estate lies on Bosky Dell farm, just a few kilometres east ofPlettenberg Bay. Owned by Greg and Rae Gilbert, this estate not only boasts magnificent views but has recently had 12.5 ha of vines planted high atop the mountain. The vines are a combination of Pinot noir and Wiesser Riesling with the remaining majority being Sauvignon Blanc. All farming is done to biodynamic principles, with no artificial pesticides, herbicides or fungicides used. This organic method helps with the restoration of the natural health to the soil. Much excitement awaits the first release under the Gilbrook Wine Estate label – which will be produced in 2013.
Closer to the heart of Plettenberg Bay is the Plettenvale Wine farm. This tiny 2.3 ha vineyard can be found just off the Kranshoek road which leads to the local airport. Consisting of Chardonnay, Pinot noir and Syrah vines, this small but successful wine farm produced its first Chardonnay/Pinot noir pink in 2011. Planswere put into place to construct a cellar at Plettenvale in time for the 2012 harvest.This vineyard can ultimately be dubbed “the small vineyard with the big heart”.
Nestled in the rolling valleys of the crags is the Newstead Wine farm. Located on the Redford Road, just 300 meters from the N2, this tranquil and mystique setting is home to Doug and Sue Lund. Plantings of vines have resulted in the much awaited Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blancwhilsta Pinot noir/ Chardonnay MCC is anticipated for 2013.
Andersons Wine Estate is another jewel belonging to the handful of wine farms in the Plettenberg Bay area. Located just above Keurbooms, this farm exhibitspicturesque views of Keurbooms as well as the breath-taking Robberg peninsula. Ian and Bruce Anderson planted their 4000 Sauvignon Blancvines in 2007, but due to unfavourable weather conditions, only 1 900 bottles of Sauvignon Blanc were produced. However, with a positive attitude and lots of dedication, Bruce predicts many more bottles for the estate’s next harvest. Marketed under the name Leto Venus, this wine is sure to tickle your taste-buds as it is said that the cooling sea breeze enhances the unique and distinct flavours of this wine.
Just outside Plettenberg Bay, in the beautiful Garden Route, Luka wine farm can be found. Not only does this boutique wine farm boast two dams overlooking the Knysna Elephant Park Valley but is also home to resident springbok amongst other wildlife. With their 2011 award-winning wine, it was no wonder that the 2012 harvest was a much sought-after product. The original farmhouse has been expertly converted into a wine tasting venue. Overlooking the vineyard, who could not but enjoy this magical scene whilst enjoying an award-winning glass of Luka wine?
With the renowned wine that the area has to offer, it’s no wonder that these small wine farms are becoming fierce competition for surrounding areas. Bramon, Luka, Andersons, Newstead, Gilbrook and Plettenvale are definitely worth keeping an eye out for on your next trip to the Garden Route.Plettenberg Bay willseem more brilliant, balanced and elegant – just like the local wines.
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