AT THE foot of the Hawequa mountains, at the end of an oak-lined cul-de-sac in Wellington, lies Welgegund Heritage Wines.
With buildings dating back to the early 1800s, this boutique wine farm has undergone major restoration under new ownership.
The new dawn includes the rehabilitation and rejuvenation of the 35-hectare estate, embracing the fynbos and dryland vineyards, including chenin blanc (1974), cinsaut (1974) and carignan (1979) bush vines which form part of the new Old Vine Project, dedicated to recognising the special character of the Cape’s wine heritage and to preserving these old vines.
Two award-winning wines produced from ancient dryland bush vines are making their debut - the barrel-fermented Welgegund Heritage Wines chenin blanc 2017 from 44-year old vines and the Welgegund Heritage Wines Providence 2015, a fruit-driven Rhône-style blend of 60% shiraz, 30% cinsaut (1974 vineyard) and 10% carignan. Both were honoured at the 2018 National Wine Challenge incorporating Top 100 SA Wines, the chenin receiving Double Platinum and Top 100 SA Wines 2018 status and the Providence Double Gold.
Welgegund has also produced an olive oil - a fruity extra virgin olive oil cold pressed from a blend of selected olive cultivars grown on the farm.
* Call 021 873 2123 or e-mail [email protected] Bianca Coleman