Thistle & Weed, established in 2015, is a collaboration between the Terblanche and Wiid families; led by Etienne Terblanche (Viticulturist) and Stephanie Wiid (Winemaker). Inspired by the encroaching weeds found amongst the vines grown in the Cape, Etienne and Steph draw parallels between thistles and weeds and the uncompromising tenacity and survival skills of grapevines. They set out to discover the best of the Cape’s hidden gems, intent on crafting honest wines that are made with a deep connection to nature and offer the most simple expression of the terroir from which they come.
The Khakibos is a blend of five varieties sourced across different areas of the Western Cape. The Verdelho is grown in koffieklip-rich soil, treasured for its free-draining quality and found anchored on the foot slopes of the Helderberg Mountain. The Chenin Blanc is located in their exceptional Paarl vineyard; the old vine Palomino is grown in Piekenierskloof sandstone; and Fernão Pires and Alvarinho is from the gravelly soils located along the Breede River. This blend is inspired by the wines of Portugal and reflect the team’s dedication to using more drought-resistant varieties in our ever-changing climate.