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The area is unique in that it benefits from both maritime and montane influences

The lower Helderberg region is situated just 5 kilometres from the shores of False Bay. The ward takes its name from the imposing Helderberg mountain which is Afrikaans for “clear mountain” and culminates at a height of 1’137 metres. The area is unique in that it benefits from both maritime and montane influences. The cool south easterly wind blowing in directly from False Bay serves to reduce daytime temperatures significantly during the growing season. This is a key terroir characteristic, differentiating the Helderberg from those areas situated over the hills further inland, which have less direct exposure to the ocean.

The wines produced here are heavily influenced by cool sea breezes and ideal soil conditions. This allows for longer ripening periods, lower yields and all the associated benefits for the production of fine wines.

Our mission is to produce wines that are expressive and individual, employing artisanal, non-interventionist principles in the vinification process. The guiding principle driving this process is that the winemaking must always respect the fruit and all cellar inputs serve the purpose of capturing the personality of the fruit, rather than imposing the winemakers vision for what the wine is supposed to taste like.

Meet the Band

Wade Metzer

Front Man and Old Vine Encounters
During his international travels, Wade affirmed his affinity for Chenin blanc, believing no other white grape variety, is capable of responding so articulately to different terroirs; its potential unmatched throughout the world, particularly in his native SA. Wade is a true believer in the power of vineyards to express a sense of “somewhere-ness” in the final product.

Barry Holfeld

Lead Guitarist & a huge selection of fishing rods
Barry was born in Australia and made South Africa his home in the early sixties. With a background in precision engineering, he is a believer in the human element of craft, and the potential for a skill to mature into an art. Barry and Wade share a passion for wine-growing and deep-sea fishing. The enterprise is a joint venture between two long-time friends and aims to showcase the Cape's vinous heritage.

Francois "Bokkom" Hanekom

Bass fishing & vine-hugger
Francois Hanekom’s roots run deep in the Helderberg. Concentrating on properties under the lower Helderberg’s propitious West Peak, Francois, has made a name for himself by managing all aspects of prime vineyards, from new plantings to turning ugly ducklings into award-winning swans.

Baxter

Smacking of the skins and chief all-rounder
Because no gang is complete without a dog!