The original grant of La Bri is one of the oldest Huguenot-allocated farms in the Franschhoek Valley. It was one of the first of nine farms granted to members of the main group of Huguenots who sought sanctuary in the Cape in 1688.
The name ‘La Bri’ is probably derived from the French for ‘the refuge’, a perfect name for this property, as it is safely nestled in the imposing amphitheatre of the Franschhoek valley.
An original homestead and outbuildings, surrounded by approximately twenty hectares under vines, beside a river, at the foot of the Franschhoek mountains, La Bri is a small, quiet, very beautiful place. Being there makes you want to do things better.
In 2007 a new era dawned for La Bri. Vineyards were gradually replanted, and a new 120 Tonne Boutique wine cellar was built in time for the 2008 harvest. The labels were redesigned to feature indigenous Cape flowers and herbs, playing on the symbiotic relationship between wine and fynbos, so apparent in the Cape.
Each La Bri wine has its own Cape flower on the label, with the exception of the Syrah, which appropriately features herbs.
The 15 hectares of vineyards at La Bri grow in diverse soil types from sandy loam to deep and rich alluvial soils. This allows for the range of Grape varieties grown from Cabernet sauvignon to Viognier.
The myth that great wine can’t be grown in the Franschhoek Valley is rapidly losing traction. We believe that the terroir in the upper reaches of the Valley offers sufficient diversity in the climate and soil. This aspect, when combined with meticulous vineyard management practices and artisanal winemaking, can produce outstanding wines. The Franschhoek Valley wines are well capable of competing with the best wines South Africa has to offer.