We started with our own cellar in 2001. We are proud to be amongst the several cellars in Wellington that are making waves in the wine industry. Our commitment is to "Wine of Origin - Wellington". We grow approximately 70% of our grapes on our own Estate on soils that have been described as within "the top 5% soil quality in the land". The remainder of the grapes comes from other Wellington vineyards.
Flagship Range
Our Flagship Range known as Carpe Diem, also made in our maiden year, reflects rigorous vineyard selection methods, harvested under conditions of optimal balance between chemical and physiological parameters. In the cellar it has longer maceration periods, and the wine is produced from mostly free-run juice. It is matured in new French and American oak barrels for a minimum period of 15 months. These wines have achieved significant success in both South African and International markets and are admired for their additional elegance and fruit intensity.
The first Cabernet Sauvignon (2001) won a Gold at the International Wine Challenge, while the 2003 vintage won the Trophy for the Best Cabernet Sauvignon at the Fairbairn capital wine Show in 2005. The Pinotage won the best Pinotage two years' running at the Fairbairn Capital Trophy Wine Show and the 2003 Carpe Diem Pinotage was awarded a place in the ABSA Top Ten in 2005 as well as taking the SA Red Trophy at the International Wine Challenge.
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The 2004 vintage saw the launch of Diemersfontein Carpe Diem Viognier - our first white wine.
Premium Range
Our premium range, with the distinctive black and cream label, was launched in the year 2001 with four varietal wines - Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Merlot and Shiraz. We are happy to say that almost immediately our special quality was recognised, and our Pinotage was awarded a coveted place in the ABSA Top Ten Pinotage competition of that year. Our aim is to produce intense and well-balanced wine of substantial complexity with the potential to age well, whilst readily drinkable when young (wood matured between six and nine months). It is our 'coffee/chocolate' Pinotage (the original) in this range that has made Diemersfontein so many friends.
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Blends
The 2003 vintage marked the launch of our two first blends - "Summer's Lease" - a Shiraz based blend with Mourvedre and Pinotage, and "Heaven's Eye" - a Bordeaux type blend. These blends started their journey with Silver Awards from the 2004 International Wine Challenge, and four stars in the Platter Guide.
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In 2005 Diemersfontein Wines was awarded 'Most Successful Producer' at the Fairbairn Capital (now Old Mutual) Trophy Wine Show.
View our winemakers.
View our list of awards.
Diemersfontein Wine and Country Estate
