Welcome to Vergenoegd Löw Wine this Winter, where you can explore the stunning vineyards, taste exquisite wines and savour the best dishes at their prized Bertus Basson restaurants. Find out all there is to know about this spectacular estate, unwind in cosy accommodations, and discover the beauty of sustainable vineyards. Experience the perfect fusion of history, wine, and nature at Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate.
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About Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate 🌳
Located in Stellenbosch, Vergenoegd Löw has undergone a decade of heritage restoration and revitalisation. Under the ownership of Prof Dr Dr Peter Löw, a German entrepreneur renowned for his philanthropy and expertise in heritage conservation, the estate soon revitalized into the divine haven it is today. As one of the country’s oldest working farms dating back to 1696, Vergenoegd Löw now serves as the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life. While visiting, guests are invited to unwind and indulge in a variety of boutique accommodations, wine tasting, culinary delights, and spa treatments.
As a recent addition to the prestigious European Heritage Project collection, Vergenoegd Löw straightaway shows past charm and modern sophistication. The stunning gardens showcase indigenous flora and striking Dylan Lewis sculptures, providing a peaceful spot for leisurely walks and views of the mountains. With a focus on sustainable viticulture, the vineyards have been carefully replanted to optimize grape quality, with varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Vergenoegd Chardonnay, and Semillon thriving in the unique soil composition enriched with ancient sea fossils. Committed to eco-sustainability and conservation, Vergenoegd Löw is a premier wine tourist destination and a recognized WWF Conservation Champion for its dedication to preserving indigenous habitats and practising environmentally-conscious farming practices.
Wines and Cellar Door Tastings 🍷
Firstly come and discover the best wine at Vergenoegd Löw . Their collection of exceptional wines reflects a balanced, mouth-filling flavour of fruit and an echo of the sea that’s satisfyingly refreshing. Led by the skilled hands of Elsenberg-trained Vusi Dalicuba and vineyard specialist Corius Visser, their winemaking approach “follows the grapes” creates wines that dazzle the palate with freshness, fragrance, and a refined structure, therefore promising a delightful tasting experience like no other.
Unveil the Vergenoegd Löw wines through cellar-door tastings at the enchanting 1773 Homestead. Step into a world of delight as you explore the range of wines, with most named after the cherished children of Prof Dr Dr Peter Löw. Indulge in a tasting experience that offers a fresh perspective on wine pairing, featuring local delicacies like bokkoms, biltong, amasi, and homemade onion marmalade. Go on a tasting journey that celebrates the flavours and craftsmanship, allowing you to savour every sip and discover the magic of wine at Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate. You can also have their celebrated wines in the comfort of your own home by finding your favourite bottle online.
Vergenoegd Löw’s Singular Stellenbosch Cabernet
“Our proximity to the sea is what lends such freshness and elegance to our layered Cabernet Sauvignon,” says Vusi Dalicuba, Vergenoegd Löw’s young and energetic winemaker. Ranked runner-up at the inaugural 2024 Next Generation Awards, sponsored by FedEx Express and convened by Winemag.co.za, he earned a score of 95 points for his 2022 Vergenoegd Löw Lara Cabernet Sauvignon. It also won gold at the recent Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Competition. The 2022 vintage was his first on the estate.
The low-lying historic luxury Stellenbosch estate, less than 5kms from the False Bay coastline, is situated along Stellenbosch’s Helderberg Wine Route. It is just 12m above sea level. “The winds off the Atlantic create a cooler environment than in the Stellenbosch area in general, sometimes by as much as 3°C.”, Dalicuba explains. “That’s a major benefit. Also, unusually for Stellenbosch, our soils are rich in lime, thanks to our low-lying, ancient seabed location, dense with sea fossils and minerals“.
“In our experience, vines grown in these calcareous soils make for graceful, harmonious wines of good acidity – qualities you can immediately pick up in our wines”. He is also quick to point out that the estate’s regenerative farming practices don’t hurt either. Followed to promote biodiversity, they also enrich the soil and make for healthy, well-balanced and climate-resilient vines.
That is why at Vergenoegd Löw, the winemaking recipe, he says, is to “follow the grapes”. In this land above-hand approach, the grapes themselves dictate how the berries should be vinified.
Of the 2022 vintage aged in a combination of new and older oak for 18 months, he says: “It shows intense concentration of black and red fruit flavours with traces of herbal notes and dark chocolate.” He describes the tannins as “chalky” and speaks of a slight salinity on the palate that he attributes to the influence of the sea. “This is definitely a wine with the structure to age.”
Dalicuba highlights the wine’s food-friendliness and recommends serving it with hearty meals, from grilled steaks and lamb chops to casseroles, roasts, deeply flavoured vegetarian dishes and strong, mature cheeses.
His success with the grape is reprising the estate’s reputation for outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon established by the Faure family, the previous owners, who held the property for almost 200 years. It was the fifth generation’s Jac and Brand Faure, who planted Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards in 1972 and went on to win the General Smuts Trophy many times over the next few years. During the 1980s, Platter’s South African Wine Guide lauded the winery for its expression of the grape, calling it “one of the best reds in the country”.
The Faure family sold the historic farm to German heritage specialist and investor Prof Dr Dr Peter Löw in 2015. Since then a major vineyard replanting has been underway. “Our vineyards have been mapped according to soil type with each grape variety matched to its optimal soil,” Dalicuba says. There are currently just over 51 ha under the vineyard. Red varieties account for 75% of the plantings with Cabernet Sauvignon in the lead.
He suggests purchasing a bottle via the estate’s online shop. “Whatever you choose as your dish, go for full-bodied, robust flavours, whether it’s your next braai, a fancy fillet dinner or Sunday roast. “Or visit us for a personal tasting presented by our resident award-winning sommelier George Young, or come for a meal at one of our two restaurants.”
The wine, along with the entire Vergenoegd Löw collection is served at both Geuwels, a casual eatery and the fine dining Clara’s Barn. Both restaurants, which reinterpret traditional Cape dishes, are the domain of chef Bertus Basson and his colleague, Drikus Brink. To sample the wine on the estate, look out for Young, recently announced South Africa’s Best Young Sommelier of 2024. He heads up wine service in the 1773 Homestead Wine Lounge with his team of accomplished wine ambassadors.
As Dalicuba urges: “Sit back and relax in a luxurious, serene environment and discover finely crafted wines that speak of place. If you’re up for a sensory experience, try the special Indigenous Tasting, where you also get to sample local flavours like bokkoms, biltong, dune spinach and roosterkoek. Or enjoy a generous platter with artisanal cured meats and cheeses, fresh fruit and more. “
Visit https://vergenoegd.co.za/ for more information, https://vergenoegd.co.za/bookings/ to make a reservation, and https://vergenoegd.co.za/collection/all/ to peruse the selection and buy wines.
George Young named SA’s Best Young Sommelier 💚
George Young, resident sommelier at Vergenoegd Löw in Stellenbosch, has been honoured as the Best Young Sommelier of South Africa 2024 by the expert panel of the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA). Calm, composed, and a consummate professional, George, who hails from Hoedspruit in Limpopo, demonstrates a quiet commitment and deep passion for sharing the joys of wine. His qualifications include WSET Level 3 and a diploma from the Cape Wine Academy. His next aim is to achieve the highly regarded Cape Wine Master qualification.
George considers Spencer Fondaumiere, chairman of SASA, and accomplished sommelier Le Roi van de Vyver as his mentor. He views this accolade as the pinnacle of his career so far and credits those who invested their time and expertise in him, teaching him the nuances of the trade.
“I truly enjoy the sense of brother- and sisterhood we share as sommeliers in the Cape wine industry. We all learn from each other – such a privilege. I’m deeply thankful to every single person who has helped and inspired me along the way, and grateful for the opportunities that honed my skillset. That’s what got me to this point,” he says.
For George, the magic of his work lies in forging connections with visitors. From sharing a table with a couple for an entire day to witnessing their delight in discovering new wines, these moments are at the heart of his favourite work experiences. His true gift, according to his colleagues, is his ability to create memorable experiences for guests. Vergenoegd Löw, recently revitalised to its former glory, is the perfect setting for him to showcase his talents.
Matching the ambitious goals of the farm, George is a valuable team member, contributing to both the operations of a working farm and its world-class luxury wine tourism destination. At Vergenoegd Löw, George leads the Homestead Wine Lounge, located in the beautifully restored 1717 manor house. He empowers and encourages his team to attain WSET certifications and specialist sommelier qualifications, helping to advance their careers in wine.
“I like paying it forward,” he explains. “I’ve experienced firsthand the power of mentorship, so it’s only natural for me to do the same. It brings me great joy.”
George singles out Vergenoegd Löw Amalie Merlot 2022 as one of his favourites made on the estate. He believes it’s a shining example of the potential of this underrated grape variety in South Africa. This wine recently won the VinLog Merlot Trophy at the prestigious 2024 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards. It’s made by young winemaker, Vusi Dalicuba. The 2022 vintage was his first on the farm.
As George continues to craft unforgettable experiences at Vergenoegd Löw, his passion for wine and dedication to excellence shines brightly, inviting visitors to savour every moment. Visit Vergenoegd Löw to meet George and his talented colleagues, and to taste Vusi’s award-winning wines. The estate’s full range can be sampled across various carefully restored Cape Dutch heritage venues. Wines are also served by the glass for those who prefer to sip and enjoy on their own.
For a unique option, try the Indigenous Tasting that showcases wines in a whole new light. Six wines from the range are presented with a selection of intriguing local flavours like bokkoms (salt-cured dried fish), biltong (spice-cured dried meat), amasi (fermented milk similar to buttermilk), herbs and spices. The selection is served with roosterkoek (griddle cake).
Delicious bountiful platters brimming with local tastes are also available. Click below to view tasting options and book your visit.
Young Winemaker Vusi Dalicuba Wins Michelangelo Merlot Trophy for Vergenoegd Löw
Vusi Dalicuba is beaming with joy after winning the VinLog Merlot Trophy at the prestigious 2024 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards, for his 2022 Vergenoegd Löw Amalie Merlot. The wine also earned a score of 90 points in the newly released 2024 South Africa Special Report by international wine critic and commentator Tim Atkin MW.
“Our low-lying location in Stellenbosch, just 3km from the Atlantic Ocean, means our vines grow in lime-rich soils infused with maritime fossils – quite unusual for the appellation,” Dalicuba explains. “This unique terroir imparts an elegant freshness and concentration of flavour to our wines, which is evident in our 2022 Merlot, made from fruit sourced from both older vines and younger ones planted in 2020.”
Dalicuba joined Vergenoegd Löw in 2021 and is currently working under the guidance of MD Corius Visser. Furthermore, he holds a Masters in viticulture and oenology from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. In addition to his formal education, he was mentored by notable figures such as Lorraine Geldenhuys of Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute, Beyers Truter of Beyerskloof, and Abrie Beeslaar of Kanonkop. Moreover, Truter and Beeslaar proposed him for the new generation role, recognizing his potential and skill in the industry.
Three years later, Dalicuba is already making waves. Just recently, he was judged runner-up at the inaugural 2024 Next Generation Awards sponsored by FedEx Express and convened by Winemag.co.za. It was his 2022 Vergenoegd Löw Lara Cabernet Sauvignon that earned him the second-highest score of 95 points. The same wine achieved a gold medal at the 2024 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards.
Established in 1696 and considered one of South Africa’s oldest working farms, Vergenoegd Löw has undergone a complete transformation since coming under the ownership of German historian and heritage specialist Prof Dr Dr Peter Löw in 2015.
As chief curator of the European Heritage Project (EHP), Löw revitalised the estate, turning it into a sought-after heritage destination. Under his leadership, the team introduced new-generation vineyards and winemaking practices, alongside a variety of wine-tasting options, two restaurants, expansive indigenous gardens, walking and cycling trails, and an exclusive boutique hotel and spa.
A proud WWF Conservation Champion, Vergenoegd Löw is a regenerative enterprise where all cultivation focuses on building soil health, climate resilience and biodiversity. Returning to the Vergenoegd Löw Merlot 2022. After harvesting, the fruit from different vineyard blocks was vinified separately to highlight its distinctive characteristics. The wine underwent slightly cooler fermentation temperatures to enhance freshness and preserve delicate fruit flavours.
It matured for approximately 18 months in 30% new oak and the rest in a combination of first-, second-, third-, and fourth-fill barrels, resulting in a complex, full-bodied, ruby-red wine with subtle herb and fynbos notes, dark fruit, and mulberry on the nose, and delicious plum on the palate. The wine is beautifully balanced with a lingering finish.
Dalicuba recommends pairing it with rich, robust dishes. “This Merlot pairs excellently with top-range steak and chimichurri sauce or a rich beef and mushroom stroganoff with layers of umami.” Taste it this Heritage Month (September) at the farm, when chef Drikus Brink from the estate’s restaurants, Geuwels and Clara’s Barn, along with South African food personality Errieda du Toit, present special menus celebrating Cape heritage flavours.
Priced at R375 per person for seven small plates to share, the Geuwels menu includes a variety of heritage dishes such as Marmite & Huguenot cheese tart with chives, shaved pickled ox tongue with sweet mustard, venison bobotie jaffle with gestoofde vrugte, Vergenoegd uitpakslaai, ystervarkies (rice-and-meatballs) in tomato smoor, sweet potato cinnamon rolls with orange glaze and macadamia nuts, chutney chicken bake, and Frankie Fenner Meat Merchants dry-aged beef with chermoula. Delicious snacks and desserts are also available.
You’ll find Vergenoegd Löw’s elegant, beautifully balanced and refreshing wines to be very suitable matches for all of these fine dishes.
Go to www.vergenoegd.co.za to make your reservation, or contact the restaurant at geuwels@vergenoegd.co.za or 021 202 4373.
Clara’s Barn will be offering a traditional three-course Sunday lunch on 29 September at 11:00, serving up heritage dishes featured in Du Toit’s celebrated cookbook, SAAM. It costs R895 per head, including wine. There are only 30 seats available for this special occasion. Advance booking and pre-payment are required by contacting the restaurant at claras@vergenoegd.co.za or 021 202 4372.
While at the farm, visit the Vergenoegd Löw Homestead Wine Lounge, located in the beautifully restored 1717 manor house, and sample the estate’s collections of wines, including its trophy-winning Merlot 2022, in a luxurious, tranquil environment. You’ll enjoy excellent care from resident sommelier George Young. The structured wines promise longevity, so buy some to enjoy now and set aside others for later. Be sure to purchase Vergenoegd Löw’s award-winning wines online, with convenient delivery to your door anywhere in South Africa.
Geuwels 💡
Try out one of the fantastic restaurants at Vergenoegd Löw that will take your taste buds on a wild ride! Led by the talented chef Drikus Brink, Geuwels serves up daily breakfast and lunch menus packed with South African flair and local ingredients From griddle cakes to traditional stews, salt-cured fish, and a variety of local treats like tarts and confections, Geuwels puts a fresh spin on classic South African favourites, giving you a taste of home like never before.
Overall at Geuwels, dining is an experience that transports you to a delicious rediscovery. With Chef Dirkus Brink at the helm, expect to feast on dishes that blend familiar tastes with twists, keeping you coming back for more. Whether you’re craving duck eggs or looking to indulge in the flavours of homemade chutneys, every bite at Geuwels tells a story of creativity. Therefore with all said why not join Geuwels for a feast in a cosy and inviting setting at Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate?
Geuwels Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 3:30 pm
Website: https://vergenoegd.co.za/geuwels/
Contact Number: 021 202 4373
Clara’s Barn 🪴
Get ready for a foodie journey at Clara’s Barn, where Chef Drikus Brink has cooked up a culinary storm. Named after Prof Dr Dr Peter Löw’s wife, Clara, this charming restaurant located in one of the oldest farm buildings promises a dining experience that’s as unique as it is delicious. Serving a five-course menu, Clara’s Barn is all about exploring inventive nose-to-tail dishes, freshly foraged herbs and mushrooms, and a variety of fruits and veggies straight from the farm. Each bite is a flavour-packed adventure that’ll make you crave more. Plus, don’t forget to pair each course with wines from the estate to take your dining experience to new heights.
Clara’s Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm and open again from 6 pm to 10 pm from Thursday to Saturday
Website: https://vergenoegd.co.za/claras-barn/
Contact Number: 021 202 4372
Vergenoegd Accommodation 🛏️
Get ready to explore the cosy accommodations at Vergenoegd Löw, where luxury meets comfort in a setting designed to ensure your relaxation and well-being. Each room, suite, and cottage has been carefully created to offer a sense of relaxation, making it the perfect retreat for couples seeking a romantic escape or families looking to create lasting memories. Whether you’re stepping into a cosy room or settling into a spacious suite, you’ll find comfort, ease, and privacy, allowing you to unwind in style.
Vergenoegd Löw Boutique Hotel & Spa, where every detail is tailored to your stay and creates a peaceful sanctuary. With a focus on providing a cosy and comfortable experience, the accommodations at Vergenoegd Löw promise to be your home away from home, ensuring that your stay is as enjoyable as possible. Treat yourself to a stay that offers the perfect blend of luxury and privacy at Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate.
Vergenoegd Luxury Spa 🔥
Ready to unwind and treat yourself to the ultimate relaxation experience? Look no further than the luxury spa at Vergenoegd Löw, where pure rejuvenation awaits. Set in what once was the farm’s dairy, this exclusive spa offers a range of wellness treatments designed to pamper your senses and nourish your body. One of the spa’s standout features is the signature milk bath experience, inviting you to indulge in luxurious comfort.
Step into luxury at the spa of Vergenoegd Löw, where your well-being takes the stage. From soothing massages to rejuvenating facials, each treatment is tailored to provide relaxation. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a pampering session or try out the milk bath experience, the spa promises to be a haven of indulgence no matter what you choose on the Vergenoegd Löw Spa Menu. So why not treat yourself to a pampering session at Vergenoegd Löw’s luxury spa and go on a journey of relaxation and wellness, where every visit is an opportunity to escape, unwind, and rejuvenate?
The Famous Indian Runner Ducks 🦆
Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate is dedicated to sustainable farming practices and environmental conservation. Their iconic Indian Runner Ducks play a vital role in pest control in the vineyards, dining on snails and keeping the farm pest-free. The ducks, along with other animals on the farm, contribute to the integrated crop management system. The estate also follows environmentally conscious principles such as recycling, solar electricity, and drip irrigation to minimize environmental impact. Vergenoegd Löw also prioritizes the well-being of their farm workers and surrounding communities, ensuring a safe and supportive working environment.
Vergenoegd Löw offers visitors the unique opportunity to witness the famous Indian Runner Ducks in action daily at 9:00 and 12:00, as they roam the vineyards to control pests. These hardworking ducks, combined with Dexter cattle on the farm, help maintain a healthy ecosystem by naturally fertilizing the soil and keeping pests at bay. The farm’s commitment to sustainability, along with the charming presence of the ducks, makes for an exciting and educational experience for those visiting the estate.
Vergenoegd Functions and Events 💒
Looking to host a special event or gather with loved ones in a perfect setting? Look no further than Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate! This venue offers a picture-perfect backdrop for weddings, meetings, and any celebration you can imagine. With a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces to choose from, including the historic homestead and stunning gardens, you can create the event of your dreams in a place rich with history and beauty. Whether you’re planning a fairy-tale wedding, a team-building meeting, or a fun-filled party, the dedicated events team at Vergenoegd Löw will ensure that every detail is perfectly tailored to your needs.
Further with their luxurious accommodations, a boutique spa, and mouthwatering dining options on offer, your guests will be treated to an unforgettable experience. From wine tastings to duck interactions and vineyard strolls, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained and engaged. No matter what you envision, Vergenoegd Löw provides the perfect setting for creating lasting memories and unforgettable moments. So, why wait? Let Vergenoegd Löw be the venue for your next special event and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Jazz Under the Stars at Vergenoegd Löw 🎷
Vergenoegd Löw’s Jazz Under the Stars event is back by popular demand, and tickets are selling fast! A perfect start to your summer season of relaxed enjoyment with family and friends, this year’s affair, scheduled for Friday, 15 November, again features Moonshine, the hugely popular jazz ensemble led by talented saxophonist Dan Shout.
With a credo of “jazz with a kick,” expect a magical musical journey that spans the Roaring 1920s and the Swingin’ 1930s and 1940s, right through to the classic Rock and Roll and Motown sounds of the 1950s and 1960s.
Think of legendary artists like Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and Dean Martin, alongside the rocking sounds of Chuck Berry, Big Joe Turner, Elvis, Ray Charles, and Marvin Gaye, among others.
Add to that an incredibly beautiful and serene setting, delicious Cape heritage-inspired food crafted by chef Drikus Brink and his team from the estate’s two restaurants, Geuwels and Clara’s Barn, as well as a selection of award-winning wines by the farm’s talented young winemaker, Vusi Dalicuba.
All the ingredients for an enchanting night out in the Winelands! The event runs from 6 pm to 10 pm and costs R850 per person, which includes the music, two glasses of wine of your choice, and a feast of delightful food. Wine will also be available for purchase at special prices on the evening, so remember to stock up for the festive season! Reserve your tickets as soon as possible, as seats are limited.
Vergenoegd Löw Location ☁️
Another major attraction is Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate’s amazing location! This spot is like a breath of fresh air, surrounded by fragrant fynbos, salty ocean vibes, and the sweet sounds of chirping birds. Just imagine being only 22 kilometres from the Cape Town International Airport, less than 40 kilometres from the lively V&A Waterfront, and a quick drive from the coastal town of Hermanus. With such easy access to these incredible destinations, Vergenoegd Löw is the ultimate escape that’s close to everything you need for a memorable adventure.
Finally, as winter approaches, don’t miss the chance to cosy up at Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate for the ultimate retreat. With its perfect setting, warm hospitality, and a range of enjoyable activities this winter, Vergenoegd Löw is the perfect winter getaway for all. From snuggling up in the Deluxe Lodge Rooms or taking in the stunning views from the Vineyard Suites, to indulging in wine tastings, spa treatments, and hearty farm breakfasts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the colder months. So, pack your bags, grab a jacket and a warm scarf, and head to Vergenoegd Löw for a winter escape that promises relaxation, fun, and an unforgettable time.
Vergenoegd Löw Opening Hours: Open Monday to Sunday 10 am to 5 pm
Address: Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate, 1 Vergenoegd Road, Somerset West Off R310, Stellenbosch Wine Route
Website: https://vergenoegd.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 843 3248
Email Address: info@vergenoegd.co.za
