The heritage of the Van Zyl family runs deeper than the roots of the Palomino vines which were planted 100 years ago by their forefathers, and which continue to produce quality grapes year after year. Their heritage of farming, wine, Rabat and Mampoer making dates back to 1799, when a Dutch settler and his wife, a French Hugenot, made this farm their home. The fresh mountain and spring water has been irrigating their crops since then. Three centuries of Van Zyl’s have lovingly toiled the deep, fertile soils which allow their vines to flourish.
Our Wines
The terroir lends itself exceptionally well to the growing of noble grape varieties of Chardonnay, Muscadel, Cabernet Sauvignon; and fruits such as Supreme Peaches, Apricots and Green figs. Wilde Paarde Kloof’s success can be attributed to the Van Zyl’s consistency, experience, vision and teamwork. They have an appreciation for the balance in nature and are committed to working in harmony with it. Farmer Redbeard wines are nurtured, produced and bottled with minimal interference. Handcrafted with enthusiasm and passion, Farmer Redbeard wines feature a complexity that meets balance to create elegance in a bottle.
Cabernet Sauvignon
These grapes were selected from a single block of Cabernet Sauvignon for their complementing flavours and fermented with wild yeast cultures. The wine was made with a minimalistic approach, and matured for 12 months in French oak barrels. It matured for a further amount of years in the bottle before it was released to the public.
An optimum balance was created between wood, fruit, spice, body and acidity. The pallet is rich, round with a long lingering taste. The bouquet has hints of mint, berries and warm spice.
Chardonnay
These grapes were selected from a single block of Chardonnay for their complementing flavours and fermented with wild yeast cultures. The wine was made with a minimalistic approach, and matured for 8 months in French oak barrels. It matured for a further year in the bottle before it was released to the public.
An optimum balance was created between wood, fruit, spice, body and acidity. The pallet is full, fruity and structured with rich tannins. The bouquet has hints of citrus and butterscotch.