Wildekrans Barrel Select Reserve Pinotage 2020

The early Botrivier farm owned by Adrian Van der Stel was comprised of Compagniesdrift, Rouiheuwel (or Roodeheuwel), Botrivier Outspan, and Keerweer (or Keer Weerder, meaning ‘come again’). For three centuries, these farms were where travellers outspanned their oxen and wagons along the Botrivier. This was in effect the beginning of the fertile rolling hills of the Overberg that early travellers were known to call Canaan (the ‘promised land’) and for years, Botrivier has been called the ‘gateway to the Overberg’ because of this.

Later, the Keerweer farm would be renamed to what is known as Wildekrans Wine Estate. Its wines, which are an expression of the unique cool climate terroir, originate in vineyards that are located on rolling hills overlooking Walker Bay. The Wildekrans winemaking philosophy is based on the premise that great wines begin in the vineyard. Consequently, infinite care is taken to match varietals to suitable soil types. The vines are thereafter nurtured to produce low yielding crops of pronounced structure and fruit intensity. The estate is planted to around seventy hectares of red and white varietals with future plantings set to enrich and balance the portfolio. The farm also prides itself on protecting its natural and indigenous surroundings. Sandstone Fynbos, endangered Western Ruens, and Shale Rhenosterveld are protected in the non-cultivated land on the farm.