Producer: Neethlingshof

Neethlingshof covers 278 ha of which approximately 70% is suitable for top quality viticulture. It contains mostly southerly slopes including south easterly, south westerly as well as somewhat northerly, westerly and easterly slopes. The altitude varies from 65 m to 282 m and huge variations in aspects occur. This gives the opportunity, by correctly choosing the site, to enhance the natural flavour and aroma of any wine grape cultivar Since 2003 Neethlingshof has been following an active biodiversity orientated strategy in its farming practices. We are moving away from a mono culture of vines and in the process we are giving back to nature some of what we took from her in the past. We are actively promoting the return of the original Renosterveld in areas where vines used to grow. At the same time we leave islands of already growing indigenous plants or actively plant islands of new Renosterveld in the vineyards. The different grape varietals grown on the farm are: Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Shiraz. White: Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Weisser Riesling, Chenin Blanc.Our aim with soil preparation is to create the maximum soil depth, and thus volume, that can be colonised by the vine’s roots. The soils are acidic by nature so this means that the soil must be ameliorated both physically and chemically to allow complete root penetration by both fine and tap roots. In the face of climate change, this is the most important practice through which the challenges of dryer and warmer weather can be faced.