Wildekrans Wine Estate, under new ownership since 2007 is situated in one of South Africa's most exciting new wine producing areas, the recently proclaimed Bot River Ward. This boutique winery is currently undergoing an intensive programme of restoration and renewal.
This 1000 hectare estate was originally established as a mixed farming operation. Today Wildekrans still produces export quality fruit, but wine has become both a passion and priority in more recent years. The terroir of the picturesque Botrivier Valley has all the key components to produce grapes of the highest quality.
The cool Atlantic sea winds and lean soils allow the grapes to reach optimal ripeness while imparting the characteristic cool climate aromatic profile that Wildekrans wines are renowned for. Braam's careful site selection, strict canopy management and yield control, combined with cutting edge vineyard practices are paying dividends.
The estate is planted to around 56 hectares of most red and white varietals with future plantings set to enrich and balance the portfolio. This year has seen the addition of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, two quintessential cool climate varieties, destined for a future variation of the estate's Cap Classique.
As with the vineyards, in the cellar the emphasis is on meticulous attention to detail and the gentlest of winemaking techniques. "We strive to deliver elegant, well balanced fruit driven wines. It's of utmost importance to maintain absolute quality throughout the range, from our value to our premium wines,” comments William.
Over the years Wildekrans has accumulated numerous accolades and awards.
Wildekrans forms part of the Green Mountain Eco Route, a group of local wine farms and other attractions committed to conservation, sustainability and upliftment. As members of the Biodiversity and Wine Initiative the estate is currently conducting a count of birds and other wildlife, which occur naturally on the farm.