A
little background to our handcrafted wines
De Trafford Winery is situated on the beautiful Mont Fleur farm
set at the top of a dramatic valley above Stellenbosch, 380m
up between the Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountains, right
at the end of the Blaauwklip road, between Stellenbosch and
Somerset West.
The history of wine growing on this mountain farm started with
the purchase of the property in 1976 by the Trafford family
as inaccessible grazing land. Many of the high altitude slopes
were deemed suitable for high quality red grape varieties. Unfortunately,
due to the absurd quota restrictions, planting a commercial
vineyard had to wait 18 years. In 1983 a small vineyard was
established to produce experimental wines - consumed by family
and friends! These were our learning curve years ( 1984 - 1991
), which included lots of help and advice from local winemakers
and working experience in France, particularly in the Bordeaux
area.
VINEYARDS
In 1991 quota restrictions were lifted. Our winery was registered
in time for the 1992 harvest and a new vineyard was planted
in 1994 and 1995. Varieties, clones, rootstocks, vine densities
and trellis systems were carefully chosen to suit the subtle
variations in soil and microclimate. The aim is to produce high
quality red wines which convey the personality and uniqueness
of this mountain site to the full.
In addition to grapes grown on Mont Fleur, Cabernet Sauvignon,
Merlot and Chenin Blanc grapes have been sourced from 3 vineyards
in the Helderberg and Stellenbosch Mountain area to produce
grapes with highly concentrated, balanced flavour from naturally
low yielding vines. Rows of vines are carefully chosen from
the various vineyard blocks and monitored throughout the growing
season to ensure the best possible quality fruit. Our tiny production
of 3500 cases means we can pay every attention to detail.
We are open for sales and tastings Friday
and Saturday mornings between 10:00 and 13:00. |
