Diemersfontein is a truly special estate just outside of Cape Town renown for its informal grace and elegant beauty near the famous Wine Routes of South Africa, but it's their wines that truly stand out.

Diemersfontein is situated against the impressive backdrop of the Hawekwa Mountains and boasts a panoramic view of Bainskloof and Du Toit's Kloof, two iconic mountain passes that stretch out across the horizon.  Pictures of the breathtaking view from the manor, surrounding vineyards and wide open expanse will whisk you away to another world - a world where everyone has a deeper appreciation for the simple things in life...like an irresistible glass of Pinotage on a sunny afternoon.

The Country Estate

Central to the working wine estate is the third-generation family manor house, known as the 'Groot Huis', overlooking magnificent gardens, which are reminiscent of an era when gracious living and tranquillity were the order of the day. Designed by Cecilia Sonnenberg, the gardens offer an abundance of roses and azaleas, a secluded swimming pool and are a much sought after venue for weddings, important celebrations and a peaceful getaway destination for conferences. The firm's association with the arts started with the strains of opera singing drifting up from the cottages housing the Italian prisoners. The family tradition of being patrons and contributors to the arts has been followed by the present owners, David and Sue Sonnenberg and Sue, an artist and chorister, is involved with encouraging and sponsoring local artists, providing them with materials and a place to work.

The Vineyards

The first vineyards were planted by David's father in the 1970s, and in 2000 David built his own cellar and started producing award-winning estate wines. Vineyard plantings include Shiraz, Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and also the "lesser known" varietals Viognier, Barbera, Roobernet, and Mouvedre. Diemersfontein's maiden vintage (2001) won the Paul Sauer Trophy for a wooded Pinotage at the SA Young Wine Show and from that first vintage, awards have continued to be received by the Estate for many of their wines.

The Harmony  

The Sonnenberg family has struck a beautiful chord with their marriage of traditional South African culture and deep appreciation for quality wine.  The wines reflect their passion for the land and the culture and give the taster a sense of what it means to be a part of their everyday life. Some sections of the Estate are now offered for country living for those who favour a wine farm lifestyle, with all the advantages and none of the responsibilities.

All the smallholdings, courtyard and fynbos mountain view sites are positioned in and around the vineyards to offer owners panoramic views, a secure environment and sophisticated infrastructure while losing nothing of the tradition and authenticity that is Diemersfontein Wine and Country Estate.

Seize The Day with Diemersfontein's 'Carpe Diem' Premium Line- Up:

Chenin Blanc Reserve 2014

A nose of pineapple, the taste of green apples and pears with warm toasty biscuit aromas to add balance acidity lend to this wines fine length and compatibility with many flavourful dishes. Roast duck and pear salad is a particular flavour, though the wine is not easily dominated by smoked pork, fish or Thai prawns.

Viognier Reserve 2014

Apricots, orange peel, citrus and biscuit followed by a rich mouthfeel with lingering marmalade aftertaste. A concentrated wine to be enjoyed with smoked pork neck, risotto or Thai dishes.

Malbec Reserve 2013

On the nose raspberry and plums with undertones of tobacco with hints of vanilla on the palate followed with supple tannins. Enjoy this wine with fine meat dishes like duck breast and maple syrup, pork and honey mustard, and of course good company. 

Pinotage Reserve 2013

On the nose plums and blueberries with sweet vanilla undertones followed by soft mouth-filling tannin. This wine lends its self to rich lamb casseroles and gentle Malay type curries.

The Diemersfontein line-up highlights some longtime favourites that are sure to thrill:

Shiraz

Rich plum on the nose gradually gives way to cloves with white pepper, finishing with a whiff of perfume.  The palate yields a good supple tannin structure and spicy fruit finish. Enjoy with gammon and cranberry sauce, Kassler chops or spicy German sausages.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Good tannin structure supports intense blackcurrant fruit, with undertones of sweet spice, cloves and pepper. Enjoy this wine with full flavoured meaty casseroles, herb crusted rack of lamb, hearty winter soups and char-grilled meats.” Serve with full flavoured meaty casseroles, herb crusted rack of lamb, hearty winter soups or char-grilled meats.

Summer's Lease (63% Shiraz, 32% Mourvédre, 5% Viognier)

Sweet cherries, plum and spicy notes on the nose with hints of vanilla on the pallet followed by supple, juicy tannin adding good length.

The Thokozani Wines range give drinkers a lighter taste to enjoy life with:

Chenin Blanc/Chardonnay/Viognier (CCV)

Lemon, lime and pineapple that gradually give way to subtle honey and biscuit characters. The lingering acidity and a medium weight mouthfeel from extended time on the lees will give this wine a lasting balance. To be enjoyed with grilled line fish and a lemon butter sauce, or a salad with a citrus dressing.

Rose

Strawberry and raspberries on the nose with sweet fruit on the palate, medium body, the residual sweetness is balanced by a lingering acidity. Serve with strawberry and rocket salad or seared tuna and wasabi.

Shiraz/Mourvedre/Viognier

Dark chocolate, morello cherries and liquorice on the nose followed by a spicy, smokey palate; fine tannin structure and good length. Enjoy with meat dishes like fillet wrapped in bacon with a creamy mushroom sauce.  

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