Swartland, literally translated, means Blackland. When settlers first arrived in the Cape in the 1650's, they discovered vast plains covered in thick, black bush north of Table Bay. The bush acted as the natural nutritional staple for the diet of the wild rhinoceroses that roamed these plains.  They names the plant Swart Renoster Bos (the Black Rhinoceros Bush,) and the land it covered the Swartland.

Folks at The Winery, they have been analyzing and experimenting in various sites around the Cape, across an array of cool climate areas, high altitude locations and warmer coastal spots, using numerous grape varieties, styles and techniques. The most exciting results unearthed thus far are from the unassuming though inspiring Perdeberg Mountain in the Swartland. We agree with The Winery that this West Coast site is the best kept viticultural secret in South Africa.

In year one, The Winery selected 10 specific vineyards (6 for the Black Rock white blend, 4 for the red.) Many of these contain bush vines and are on mostly dry land (i.e. no irrigation.) The yields, consequently, are limited – in 2004, the whites averaged about 25 hl / hectare (by comparison, Grand Cru Burgundy can produce up to 40 hl / ha,) while the reds averaged 32.5 hl / ha. The Winery has identified a further 6 parcels to grow into in the coming years, convinced that the resulting wines will be a great success.

Choose a wine to the right.