Far up the West Coast, about three and a half hours drive north of Cape Town, lies an open bay of white sand strewn with black mussels and kelp, with the icy waters of the Atlantic beating the shore. This is Donkiesbaai, where the Engelbrecht family have holidayed for four generations. This unassuming spot lends its name to their adventurous range of wines from the Piekenierskloof. The wine was made with the cuisine of the West Coast in mind. Crayfish, Harders, and a cold glass of wine is part of the history that is Donkiesbaai.
Grapes are sourced from the Piekenierskloof, about 80km from the coast. Unirrigated bush vines are planted in deep sandy soils. Elevated sites have a warm climate with cooling evening winds. In keeping with their philosophy of minimal intervention winemaking, 25% of the Grenache is fermented as whole clusters. Spontaneous ferment in open top fermentation tanks. Maturation takes place in seasoned 500L French oak barrels for approximately fourteen months.