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Our Farm
Steeped in history and boasting some of the highest planted vineyards in the Cape, Chamonix is set amongst 300 hectares of pristine natural beauty on the Eastern slopes of the Franschhoek mountains.
Background
Van Loveren is situated 160 kilometers from Cape Town, in the Breede River Valley between Robertson and Bonnievale. Banks of scarlet cannas along the roadside distinctly mark the property, which has been in the Retief family for over three generations.
Cellar and Vineyards
The farm is situated in a narrow valley in the Kleinriver Mountains, southernmost mountain range in Africa.
Our History
1808 - The Napoleonic Wars were uniting Europe - French troops occupied Rome and Madrid - Russia had conquered Finland and the dreaded Spanish Inquisition had finally been abolished. Beethoven presented to the world his Fifth and Sixth Symphonies and America banned the importation of slaves from Africa.
Vineyards and Winemaking
The Pentz family identified the best 120 Ha of well drained clay soils to plant 122 Ha of wine grapes.
The Pebbles Story
The Pebbles Project was established in 2004 to offer support to children with special educational needs, particularly those whose lives are affected by alcohol in some way, in the Western Cape of South Africa.
Leopard's Leap - Our Passions
Alongside its primary dedication - making quality wines to appeal to modern, adventurous palates - Leopard's Leap Family Vineyards has three special passions: food, conservation and literature.
Background
Kleine Zalze is an award-winning winery situated in the heart of the Cape Winelands, just two miles from Stellenbosch. Winemaking has taken place on our estate on a small scale since 1695 but it was in 1996, when Kobus Basson and his family purchased the property, that the modern Kleine Zalze was born.
Leopard's Leap - Global Vision
Following its initial focus on exports to the United Kingdom, Leopard's Leap has spread its wings to more than 40 countries world-wide, with new channels being explored continuously.
Farm History
Blaauwklippen was founded in 1682 by Gerrit Jansz Visser, but it wasn’t until 1688 that the first vineyards were planted in the fertile soil of the estate. Jump forward to 1899, when famed businessman and politician Cecil John Rhodes became the owner of Blaauwklippen, but only for one day!