Terroir
S O U T H E R N G A T E O F T H E S W A R T L A N D
At the Southern-most tip of the Swartland, Leeuwenkuil is situated in the triangle between Malmesbury, Paarl and Durbanville. 5 farms cover W.O. Swartland, Voor-Paardeberg and Paarl. (Possibly a Google Earth Map)
Leeuwenkuil is approximately 35km to the west is the cold Atlantic Ocean (12-14⁰C) that has a significant cooling and moderating effect on the Mediterranean climate.
A rich diversity of soil greatly impacts the quality of our wines, namely: Shale, Schist, Granite and Iron Stone. These ancient soils offer differences in clay %, mineral content and organic matter.
The influence of the west coast and the prevailing southerly winds mean temperatures here are on average a few degrees cooler than the Swartland interior. Greater diurnal temperature variation, where the much cooler nights give the bunches time to cool down and retain their acidity and freshness.
Due to the lower rainfall in the Swartland region most of our vineyards are managed as dry-land vineyards with some supplementary irrigation. This results in lower yields & small berries that produce wines with a layered flavour profile, texture, concentration & length.
The dry-land conditions and prehistoric Schist, Shale, Granite & Sandstone soils are well-suited to cultivating nuanced Chenin Blanc, Shiraz, Cinsault & Pinotage vineyards.
Many of our oldest, most prized vineyards are bush-vine vineyards that produce very low yields and as a result stand the test of time and harsh, dry conditions. Vines older than 35 are registered with the Old-Vine-Project of South Africa and produce wine with distinct character, concentration, length & texture.
Respect for all these natural elements as a precious gift, we are IPW certified, which helps govern our practices towards preserving the harmony between our vines and the natural rhythm of the land.
Willie Dryer & son Willie Dreyer, together with Ludolf Oosthuizen manage the extensive vineyard acreage at Leeuwenkuil. With the expert guidance of Viticulturist, Koos van der Merwe, Leeuwenkuil’s future focus of vineyard cultivation has long, steady time-horizons to secure the heritage we have in our vines and to ensure the cellar team have access to quality grapes, with a secured future.