Lying on the slopes of the world-famous Chapman’s Peak and bordering the Table Mountain National Park in Noordhoek, Cape Point Vineyards is set high amid rich flora and fauna, with breathtaking vistas of mountains and ocean at every turn. This narrow peninsula was initially discovered in the 15th century by the Portuguese seafarer Bartholomew Diaz. In 1752, at least 30,000 vines were registered for excise purposes on the existing Cape Point Vineyards farm. Replanted in 1996 by owner Sybrand van der Spuy, Cape Point Vineyards has enjoyed recognition ever since its maiden vintage.
The establishment of these vineyards and the Cape Point Vineyards cellar, the only ones in the district, prompted the declaration of the new Cape Point Wine of Origin district in 1998. As the only vineyard to be found in the Cape Peninsula, here on the slopes of Chapman’s Peak, a mere two kilometres from the ocean, one finds a unique terroir where the combination of ancient mountain soils and cool sea breezes creates ideal conditions for Sauvignon Blanc of distinction.
The Cape Point Vineyards are planted on two estates: Noordhoek and Scarborough, situated on the Cape Point peninsula. Cool sea breezes from the confluence of two oceans of differing temperatures directly affect this narrow strip of land, 11 kilometres at its widest point, where grapes enjoy slow-ripening conditions ideal for producing premium wines. Each of the terroirs, with an excellent variety of soil and micro-climatic conditions, were selected for their specific suitability to the cultivation of particular varieties. On the cool south-facing slopes of Noordhoek Estate, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Chardonnay were planted. The warmer north-facing slopes on Scarborough Estate were selected for their potential to produce premium red wines, being planted to Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.
With new ownership in the wine business, the estate is investing significantly in establishing new vineyards to ensure they continue producing world-class wines. The team, led by head winemaker Riandri Visser, viticulturist Steffan Lochner and cellar master Hannes Meyer, works with unique grapes from a unique site. “To be able to work with unique grapes from unique site and to be able to showcase our passion for wine through the wine in the bottle” is what drives them. Wines from Cape Point Vineyards not only show true reflection of the unique site but also true reflection of passion from a very dedicated team of staff in the vineyards and new ownership.
