The One about Vermaaklikheid

Vermaaklikheid is a small town on the Cape South Coast near Witsand and close to the Duiwehoks River.

After years of working with warmer climate Chardonnay, I looked for limestone soil from a cooler area and something little different and unique region-wise to add to my portfolio. I found this 3.5 hours away from Cape Town, and my dream of making a local Burgundian style wine is slowing in the making. Over the next few years, I will perfect this as I learn which oak ratio works best with the fruit.

But some things are easier said than done, so when it came to my first Focal Point harvest in 2017, it was quite a logistical challenge to get the grapes to Paarl. But luckily, for my Code 14 license, I hired a truck and collected it myself. I left Vermaaklikheid at 5 am and drove 80km p/h with my beautiful grapes home. It reminds me of the day we took Zaria home from the hospital for the first time. But all the extra time and energy spent was well rewarded, and after fermentation, 12 months in barrel, I released my 2017 Focal Point Chardonnay in May 2018.

Four vintages later, I’m still personally collecting my grapes and reap the rewards from buying in from Vermaaklikheid. Look out for my Focal Point Chardonnay 2019 that will be released soon! But not only is the wine produced from here impressive, but a visit to the area is highly recommended.

Things to see and do on the way to Vermaaklikheid
o Roosterkoek at Buffeljagsriver
o Ostriches on the road
o Wimpy in Riversdale #classic
o Hooikraal Farm Butchery at the Skeerhok PadStal

And in Vermaaklikheid
o Bird Watching
o Limestone Cliffs
o Snorkling
o De Hoop Nature Reserve
o Peace & Quiet

Join us over the next few months on a trip or two to Vermaaklikheid and explore more options.