Rupert & de Rothschild Vignerons is a partnership in wine production on the historic French Huguenot farm Fredericksburg, between the Rupert family of South Africa and Baron Benjamin de Rothschild son of the late Baron Edmond de Rothschild of France. The farm was founded in 1690, more than three centuries ago, by the brothers Jean and Daniel Nortier (Nortje).
Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons wines are made from selected vineyard sites. Replanting of the vineyards started in the mid 80's. A diversity of clones of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Chardonnay were planted on the slopes of the Simonsberg mountains. Different slopes, soil types, rootstocks and clones play an important role in the complexity of the wine. The choice of rootstock was made according to the soil-types which are predominantly duplex and clovelly. These are well-drained and have significant water retention capacity. Only supplementary irrigation is applied during very dry years.
Fredericksburg vineyards occupy the north-westerly slopes of the Simonsberg mountains. Adequate sunshine - and thus ripening, is generally not a problem. Rain falls mainly during winter from April to September and the annual rainfall is 650mm. The average temperature is 19 - 21C, and frost is minimal. The influence of two great oceans, the Atlantic and the Indian, produces strong winds in the form of "berg" winds from the northern interior and south-easterly winds. These winds moderate extreme temperatures; they also dry the vines after rain, which helps reduce rot and minimize pest infection.
Opening Times
Mon- Fri: 09h00 - 16h40
By appointment only
