De Wetshof Estate

The winery De Wetshof is located in the Robertson Wine Valley in South Africa. It is considered one of the most famous Chardonnay houses in the world. 

De Wetshof Estate - Wines from the Chardonnay Wizard

Since the 70s of the last century, the estate is managed by Danie de Wet. At that time, he brought Chardonnay vines to South Africa, in defiance of import bans and quarantine regulations, and thus laid the foundation for his current pioneering position in the production of exquisite white wines.

The climate in Robertson

The climate in the Robertson Wine Valley is dry. A light breeze blows from the Agulhas coast towards the vineyards, keeping them cool in the sunny summer. The cool winds and dryness also reduce the risk of pests in the vineyards, so the use of pesticides can be kept to a minimum.

The soils

The soils of the De Wetshof vineyards are characterized by their high lime content and the associated optimal pH value. Each of the vineyards has individual soil characteristics, which in turn affects the characteristics of the individual wines.

• While the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, rooted in the rocky siliceous soils, are convincing with mineral aromas and a citrus note,
• the wines that grow closer to the Breede River have a fuller, denser flavor thanks to the high clay content in the soils that prevails there.

This reflection of terroir in the wines is exactly what winemakers around the world strive for. De Wetshof achieves this in an excellent, elegant way.