Producer Story

Downes Family Vineyards is situated in the Elgin Valley within the Kogelberg Biosphere with mountains to the west and the Palmiet River to the east. The Elgin Valley which has long been regarded as the apple and pear centre of South Africa, now has some of the country's most highly regarded winemakers establishing vineyards in the area, testament to its obvious winemaking potential. The vineyards benefit from the high altitude cool temperatures, as well as an abundant rainfall throughout the year and the prevailing cold summer wind, known as the ""Black South-Easter"" blowing in from the ocean. Viticulture practices and canopy management which enhance longer ripening periods capture in the wines, the broad spectrum of flavours created in the cool climate of our unique terroir!