AA Badenhorst

A.A. Badenhorst Family Wines was founded in 2007 by cousins Hein and Adi Badenhorst after they purchased
and refurbished a neglected 60-hectare wine farm nestled on the granite slopes of the Paardeberg Mountains in the Swartland region. With a vision to return to the roots of winemaking, the cousins sought to revive traditional methods that had largely been replaced by modern technology.
The farm, previously untended for years, was carefully restored by the cousins, who committed themselves to nurturing its unique terroir and producing wines that express the character of the Swartland. Their goal was not only to craft exceptional wines but also to farm in harmony with nature, using sustainable, low-intervention practices.
Adi Badenhorst, now the face of the winery, is known for his hands-on approach and passion for traditional
winemaking techniques. He employs only old-school equipment, including a horse-drawn plow and large,
vintage concrete tanks for fermentation. These methods allow the wine to develop naturally, without
unnecessary manipulation, giving each bottle its own sense of place and history. The focus is on producing
authentic, terroir-driven wines that reflect the unique soils and climate of the region.
In addition to reviving old vineyards and planting new ones, the cousins emphasize ‘baie-dynamic’ farming — an affectionate nod to biodynamic principles adapted to their local environment. Their vineyards are home to a diverse array of plant life, and the use of cover crops, composting, and minimal spraying fosters a balanced
ecosystem on the farm.
Since its establishment, A.A. Badenhorst Family Wines has grown into one of the Swartland's leading producers, known for its artisanal wines that prioritize quality over quantity. The portfolio includes a range of wines, from elegant blends to single-vineyard bottlings, each crafted with care and a deep respect for nature and tradition.
The family-oriented ethos of the farm is also evident in every aspect of the operation. Adi's wife, Cornelia,
brings her creative touch to the farm’s design and hospitality, while various other family members are involved in the day-to-day workings of the business. This family spirit, combined with a passion for winemaking, creates a
unique and welcoming environment for visitors who come to experience the authentic soul of the Swartland.
Today, A.A. Badenhorst Family Wines is not just a winery but a symbol of the Swartland’s resurgence as a premier wine region, celebrated for its commitment to tradition, sustainability, and the craft of honest
winemaking.
Year Founded: 2007
Size of property: 60 ha (148.5 acres) total, 25 ha (62 acres) planted
Terroir: The winery is located on a mountain range which is a granite outcrop. Three distinctive types of
granitic soil are found on this property — Paardeberg, Lammershoek and Lemoenfontein granites along with
different sub-surface geology including clay, weathered granite and shale.
Vineyards: Mostly old unirrigated bushvines planted in the 1950’s and 1960’s on north, east, and south facing
slopes. Fruit from other selected sites within the appellation are also purchased to complete the final blends.
Winemaking: All grapes are whole bunch-handled so no crushing or destemming takes place. The whites are transferred directly to old casks or into concrete tanks for fermentation and ageing. The reds are fermented in concrete tanks and open wooden kuipe. The post fermentation maceration is lengthy – up to 4 months - whereafter the wines are put to cask or 4000L foudres. No additions are done to the grapes other than sulfur before and after ferm