Our Vineyards | Simonsberg - Stellenbosch

The Simonsberg Mountain is made up of layers of sandstone in various stages of geological metamorphosis, forming part of the Table Mountain Sandstone complex. Beneath the sandstone there is a large granitic intrusion which is believed to have formed the many folds and cracks in the sandstone layers.

After years of weathering, these"œparent materials" have resulted in the rich red soils which cover the foothills of this mountain. High clay, fine sand/stone content together with the high levels of rich organic matter provide a rich medium with a good capacity for water retention enabling the vine to establish a deep flourishing root system.

Vineyard altitudes range from about 150m above sea level on the lower mid-slopes to 600m above sea level for the higher mid-slopes providing a range of different micro climates, all with a general southerly exposition. These micro-climates result in vineyards producing fruit with distinct differences lending complexity to the final blends in the cellar.

Climate conditions

Winters are generally moderate with 95% of the annual rainfall occurring between April and November. Average annual rainfall is in the region of 750mm per year. Winters are normally cool enough for the vine to move into a desired state of dormancy with snow on the peaks of the surrounding mountains a common occurrence.

Summer months can be very hot and dry with the warmest months being February and March. High wind levels are evident between the months of December and March. The wind in combination with the heat during February and March can result in high levels of stress for the vine trying to ripen its crop.

With the correct viticulture, these stress levels can result in thicker grape skins with the resultant increase of tannin and flavour making this region very suitable to producing high quality red wines.

The harvest period generally begins towards the end of February and ends towards the end of March.

Vineyard layout

All vines have been established on phylloxera-resistant rootstock. Planting densities range from 2500 - 6000 vines per hectare. Trellising systems incorporate spur pruning and vertical shoot positioning with head pruning being used on certain vineyards.

On the Simonsberg, we have focused primarily on the establishment of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz with smaller plantings of Cabernet Franc, Mouvedre, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier.