THEUNISKRAAL ESTATE
P O Box 34, Tulbagh 6820
Tel 023 2300687
Fax 023 2301504
Open for wine tasting and sales by prior arrangement
Owners: Rennie & Kobus Jordaan Winemakers: Kobus & Andries Jordaan
Viticulturists: Rennie Jordaan and Wagner Vineyards: 130 ha.
Please double click on the images to enlarge
The Jordaan family's 18th century estate, fringed by towering Witzenberg peaks, has been synonymous with (Cape) riesling since the variety was first bottled under the farm label in 1948. Black grapes such as cabernet, shiraz and ruby cab., now being planted, will eventually extend the food-friendly, non-showboating house style into a fresh dimension.* John Platter, South African Wines, 2000
History
In "Het Land van Waveren", surrounded by the mighty
Winterhoek mountains, and the Witzenberg in the east, lies an old family
treasure that has put Tulbagh on the wine map of the Cape. This is
Theuniskraal, known far and wide for its noble white wines. Theuniskraal,
called "Theuniskuyl" until 1724, was originally granted to Theunis
Bevernagie in 1714. The farm has been in the hands 
of the Jordaan family
since 1927. In the late 1940s, when South African wine tastes were only
beginning to graduate to dry whites, Andries Jordaan, the father of the present
owners, released his Theuniskraal Riesling and achieved one of the glowing
moments in South Africa's oenological history when his wine was awarded the gold
medal at the Commonwealth Wine Show in 1950. This pioneering effort
resulted in the wine being exported to London for many years, and it is today
without doubt the most sought after Riesling in South Africa. It remains
the pride of this famous white wine estate, since 1964 jointly owned by the
brothers Kobus - the cellar master - and Rennie - the viticulturist - whose son,
Andries, ably assists in the Cellar. This ensures that the fine skills of
winemaking are passed down from generation to generation in the Jordaan family.
Vineyards
This 282 hectare estate has about 130 hectares under Riesling,
Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon vineyards. In the early days the
areas surrounding the river were used for viticulture; 
until 1954 when the
poorer, stony soils on the slopes were cleared, slopes which have proved to be
eminently suitable for the cultivation of certain varieties - especially
Riesling. Vineyard cultivation is hampered by the sandy loam soil strewn
with boulders. However, this has proved to be advantageous as these
boulders, when crushed, help to keep the soil cool, airy and well drained.
At Theuniskraal considerable attention is given to long term planning of
vineyard blocks. This includes, among 
others, proper soil preparation,
suitable plant material for the various types of soil as well as correct plant
widths, irrigation systems and a trellis system. Irrigation and fertilization
are controlled by a computer which ensures both processes are completed
effectively and accurately. All vineyards on Theuniskraal are planted
according to the 4 wire trellis system which is equipped with moveable foliage
wires to facilitate better control of foliage. This trellis system,
together with shadows cast by the high peaks of Saronsberg and the Obiqua
mountains, ensures the grapes are kept cool in the summer.
Viticulture
Theuniskraal has a modern wine cellar where the newest and most
advanced technological 
equipment is used. Great emphasis is placed on the
gentle handling of grapes, to ensure the delicate flavours are retained.
Moreover, the grapes are harvested in the cool of the mornings, from 0500 to
1100, when the temperatures of the grapes are at their lowest. This
further helps preserve the precious flavour of the grapes.
The Wines
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Theuniskraal Riesling
This wine, for long the flagship of the wine estate, is light, fresh and easily drinkable, and should ideally be enjoyed early when the fresh taste of the cultivar is pronounced. With numerous international awards to its name, this Tulbagh Riesling is most enjoyable on its own, ideal as an appetizer and a worthy companion to fine foods.
Platters says "This brand, more than half-century old, fresher now than ever. Steely dry 99, excellent partner for game, fish or lobster; fragrant fresh hay and touch of dried peach. Lively palate with crisp lemon zest finish."
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Thueniskraal Semillon/Chardonnay
This elegant newcomer from Theuniskraal is a blend of two classic cultivars, Semillon and Chardonnay, in a ration of 66% to 34%. The wine is unwooded, dry, medium bodied, revealing lively natural fruit acids with traces of apple and lime aromas. Smooth, well rounded and mouth filling, the wine should ideally be enjoyed during the first three years. Delightful on its own, and a fine accompaniment to chicken, seafood and pate.
Platters says "Cheerful, sappy lime/peach pairing, fresh citric flavours carry through to long, zippy 99 finish. Best in bloom of youth."
Theuniskraal wines are marketed nationally and internationally by The Bergkelder.
