Piekenierskloof Winery

In 1923, Johan Abraham van Zyl and his wife, Wilhelmina, settled on the rugged, undeveloped mountain ridge of Piekenierskloof. Forty years later, in 1962, their son, Carel van Zyl, planted some of the first vineyards in this region. Today, the fourth generation of the van Zyl family continues to honor their heritage with unique wines crafted from meticulously farmed and lovingly managed vines, some of which are over 60 years old.

Piekenierskloof has earned the affectionate nickname ‘Grenache HQ’ among wine enthusiasts. The region boasts one of the largest Grenache plantings in the Cape, with an extensive collection of old, unirrigated bush vine vineyards that have endured the test of time and consistently produce exceptional wines.

The winery’s vibrant orange labels reflect the Dutch origin of the Piekenierskloof name and the region’s citrus farming history. Each label also features a Piekenier, symbolizing new beginnings, family legacy, plentiful harvests, and the enjoyment of hard-won peace and liberty.

The vineyards at Piekenierskloof are planted on both west- and east-facing slopes along a valley that winds north to south. These vines grow in Tafelberg sandstone soils at altitudes between 650m and 700m. The elevation plays a significant role in cooling the vineyards during hot summer days, and the sandy loam soils impart a sense of perfume and minerality to the wines. This unique terroir allows the grapes to ripen slowly, developing complex flavors that result in wines with fresh fruit and berry notes.

Grenache is synonymous with Piekenierskloof. This vigorous, hardy vine thrives in hot, dry conditions and reaches its peak quality as the vines mature. Grenache’s water-wise nature complements Piekenierskloof’s range of iconic Rhône varietals

Under the expert guidance of Cellar Master Alecia Boshoff, Piekenierskloof Wines celebrates the essence of France’s Rhône Valley while consistently producing award-winning Rhône-style South African wines with exceptional taste.