Riebeeksrivier Caroline

Fresh raspberry, lemon and white chocolate cupcakes.

Situated on the slopes of the Kasteelberg, the Riebeeksrivier farm overlooks the Swartland towards the iconic Table Mountain. Planted on south and west facing slopes on predominantly shale soils, at altitudes between 350 – 400m above sea level, these vines produce fruit expressive of varietal character and unique terroir. The oldest Chenin Blanc bushvines were planted in 1987, and more recently a small parcel of Chenin Blanc was planted in 2013. The higher density plantings of Viognier (2009), Roussanne (2009) and Marsanne (2011/12) are all échalas trellised (vine trained on its own wooden stake). The 2020 blend includes the maiden harvest of Piquepoul Blanc – a variety renowned for its high natural acidity grown primarily in the southern Rhone Valley and Languedoc regions of France. This was also the 1st commercial production of Piquepoul Blanc in South Africa. The winter preceding the 2024 harvest was one of the wettest on record in the Western Cape, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and widespread flooding in September. These conditions reduced yields in coastal regions, but they also recharged the soils, resulting in a unique growing season. The vines responded vigorously to the dry, hot weather that followed, resulting in an early and quick start to the harvest. The rapid pace intensified the season, but these conditions also allowed for impressive flavour build up and concentrated fruit. The result is a vintage with incredible depth, balance, and potential—a high-quality year that promises some exceptional wines with finesse and intensity.

The individual vineyards were harvested separately by hand and transported to the cellar where the grapes were cooled overnight. A combination of whole bunch pressing and destemming was done prior to overnight juice settling and racking the following day. Spontaneous fermentation by indigenous yeast occurred in older French oak (16% new) and stainless steel tanks (45%). occurred in older French oak (16% new) and stainless steel tanks (45%). Partial malolactic fermentation (10%) occurred during 7 months ageing on the fine lees to build a full, well rounded palate before the wine was blended and bottled.

This is a range created in recognition of the Cape of Good Hope’s vinous heritage which stretches back more than 350 years when the first Governor of the Cape planted grapes. These unique wines are the result of irreplaceable parcels of old vines and site specific terroirs. The labels reflect the grape variety as well as the origin and singular characters behind them.