The secret of Theuniskraal

Theuniskraal is situated 7km north of Tulbagh, tucked in the lush Winterhoek Valley, formed by the Witzenberg Mountains to the east, the Obiqua Range to the west and the Winterhoek Mountains to the north.

Our Secret

Perfect Location

Theuniskraal is situated 7km north of Tulbagh, tucked in the lush Winterhoek Valley, formed by the Witzenberg Mountains to the east, the Obiqua Range to the west and the Winterhoek Mountains to the north.These encircling mountains create important watersheds and are the main sources of the three most significant rivers in the Western Cape. Situated 2 050m above sea level,

these peaks are regularly snow-clad in winter, giving the vines the opportunity to retreat into proper dormancy, essential for late-budding varietals. Intense cold leads to more even budding in spring, which beneficially impacts upon grape quality.

The Secret Of Theuniskraal - Theuniskraal Wine Estate - dam & mountains - Theuniskraal Wine Estate, Western Cape, South Africa [© 2011 PaulGodard.com]

Perfect Conditions

Establishing these vineyards involved crushing tons of boulders. The Jordaan’s undertook this gigantic task, producing Theuniskraal's cool, stony, sandy-loam soils with excellent drainage and aeration - providing the ideal growing conditions. Moveable trellising wires, careful canopy management and modern viticultural practices (along with the cooling shadows cast by the surrounding mountains) ensure slow ripening of the grapes. Without good grapes there can be no fine wine. Grapes are therefore harvested in the cool of the morning to remain ripe, crisp and flavour-filled. Gentle handling and minimum manipulation preserve these flavours.

The Secret Of Theuniskraal - Theuniskraal Wine Estate - vineyards & mountains - Theuniskraal Wine Estate, Western Cape, South Africa [© 2011 PaulGodard.com]