Explore the lush vineyards of Lothian surrounded by water and mountains.

Lothian lies between the rugged mountains of Elgin, sunk deep into the valley below like a hidden treasure. A landscape so pristine that it has been frozen in time. Where leopards still roam and fynbos flourish, protected by state nature conservation. 

One might mistake the place for Scotland, with the thick morning mist, rolling greenery and waterways framed by towering peaks creating a gripping natural amphitheater.

PLACE

The Lothian estate is distinguished by nature. Its unique location on the banks of the Palmiet River is perfect for growing grapes to produce elegant Burgundian-style Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and Rosé varietals. Years of searching have revealed this opulent place as the perfect terroir to create the wines we love.

VINEYARD APPROACH

Blocks were planted to suit the cool climate and clones of cultivars were carefully selected. Careful management of canopies is applied to avoid over exposure of bunches to the sun. There are 14 named blocks with some subdivided to precisely identify how the individual blocks ‘behave’.

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CLIMATE

Due to its high altitude (262m to 280m elevation), and cool winds from the Atlantic Ocean (12 – 20 km away), Elgin is one of the coolest wine regions in South Africa. The Lothian vineyards are further cooled down by their unique location on a large body of water. During the evenings, cool air drains down the Palmiet River valley with frequent theatrical mist formations along the water, cooling the mornings. On the vines, the cool climate leads to better colour development and the grapes retain natural acidity. During the cold winter months, with temperatures measuring as low as 5.4 C and ample rainfall (c. 1 000 mm/year), the vineyards can rest. Temperatures remain moderate during the summer ripening period (February) with temperatures ranging from 19 C, 
to a maximum of 25 C.

SOIL

The complex soils of Lothian allow the viticulturist to access diverse flavours and intensities within a relatively small area. It gives the winemaker much to play with – delicate fruits on the palate, concentrated aromas on the nose and a fresh, elegant character. The soil is a mix of clay, sandstone, weathered rock and organic matter that allows for deep root penetration and balanced vine vigour.

Geologically the soil is made up of Table Mountain sandstone (Witfontein and Pinegrove geological formations), weathered Bokkeveld shale and iron-rich Podzolic soils (made up of organic compounds leached from fynbos and bound with lower soil layers).