Olifants River
The Olifants River Valley is the northernmost part of South Africa’s Western Cape. Spanning between Lutzville in the north and Citrusdal Valley in the south, this beautiful area encompasses Bamboes Bay, Cederberg, Koekenaap, and Vredendal.
The viticultural history of Olifants River Valley dates to the 1700s when explorers and adventurers recognized the agricultural potential of the land. Instead of venturing into the arid Namaqualand Desert to the north, they chose to settle along the more fertile riverbanks, laying the foundation for viticultural tradition that continues to thrive today.
Olifants River Valley is a semi-arid climate and a varied terroir that enables the production of a wide array of grape varieties. Closer to the coast, where the climate is cooler, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Grenache Noir show an intriguing herbaceous character. The estates situated further inland, nestled in the mountains see richer and fuller bodied red varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, and Shiraz.
While the region is known for its expansive vineyards and mass production capabilities, it is largely producing quality wines that have gained recognition in the export market. Additionally, the region is home to smaller boutique wine estates situated in the elevated mountainous regions and along the picturesque coastline, crafting premium wines that captivate discerning palates. Donkiesbaai, Alheit, and The Sadie Family Wines are making the best wines from this area.
While the northern part of the region features relatively flat terrain, the central and southern areas are known for mountain views for as far as the eye can see. Vineyards are strategically planted along the river plains in the north, extending gently to higher slopes that slowly rise eastwards.
Defined by the Cederberg Mountains to the east, Olifants River Valley’s official viticultural zone encompasses some of South Africa’s highest altitude vineyards in the well-regarded wards of Cederberg and Piekenierskloof.
Because of its varied topography and cooling breezes sweeping in from the nearby Atlantic Ocean, the region benefits from many diverse microclimates. This natural influence plays a crucial role in tempering the climate, especially in the northern parts such as Vredendal, where the proximity to the Namaqualand Desert results in a very dry and hot environment.
Annual rainfall around Vredendal measures just 6.5 inches, necessitating irrigation from the Olifants River. In contrast, the southern mountainous regions around Citrusdal receive approximately three times the amount of rainfall, creating a more balanced water supply for the vineyards.
Soil composition in Olifants River Valley is quite varied. Along the river plains in the north are loamy alluvial soils, while the higher slopes are gravellier yielding more mineral and complex wines. Further south, in Cederberg and Citrusdal, vineyards predominantly thrive on Table Mountain sandstone and shale soils, giving fine grained tannins and are the most ageworthy.
