At the foot of the spectacular Simonsberg mountain in the Franschhoek Valley lies the historic French Huguenot farm Fredericksburg, established in 1690 and now home to Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons. The Rupert family and Baron Benjamin de Rothschild of France share this prestigious partnership in wine production.
Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons wines are made from selected vineyard sites. Replanting of the vineyards started in the mid 80's. A diversity of clones of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Chardonnay were planted on the slopes of the Simonsberg mountains.
Different slopes, soil types, rootstocks and clones play an important role in the complexity of the wine. The choice of rootstock was made according to the soil-types which are predominantly duplex and clovelly. These are well-drained and have significant water retention capacity. Only supplementary irrigation is applied during very dry years.
Fredericksburg vineyards occupy the north-westerly slopes of the Simonsberg mountains. The influence of two great oceans, the Atlantic and the Indian, produces strong winds in the form of "berg" winds from the northern interior and south-easterly winds. These winds moderate extreme temperatures; they also dry the vines after rain, which helps reduce rot and minimize pest infection.
Opening Times:
Monday to Friday: 09h00 - 16h40, by appointment only
