Welcome to Opstal Wine Estate

Tucked away in the stunning Breedekloof Wine Valley, Opstal Estate stands as a beacon of rich history and exceptional winemaking. The estate’s origins date back to 1847 when JC Rossouw acquired the farm De Opstal bij de Fonteine, marking the beginning of a legacy that has thrived for generations.

Check out our selection of incredible Opstal Estate wines here.  

A terroir defined by topography

The Breedekloof Wine Valley is uniquely characterised by its majestic mountains, which form a sort of mountainous crown around the vineyards, a natural barrier that creates a microclimate that lends itself to winemaking. Indeed, the estate's name, derived from the Afrikaans term meaning "upland," reflects its elevated position in the valley. The Worcester Fault has contributed to the area's geology, resulting in hills composed of weathered sandstone and granite that crumble into river pebbles, enriched by ancient layers of sedimentary minerals. The life-giving Breede River meanders through this valley, nurturing the agricultural landscape that has flourished here for centuries.

The region’s unique topography leads to high diurnal temperature swings, allowing grapes to ripen slowly. This slow ripening, combined with the sun-kissed days and cool nights, produces wines that are both rich and refreshing—characteristics that higlight was Opstal has to offer. 

A Rich Heritage

At the helm of Opstal Estate's winemaking is a family tradition that spans seven generations. The current winemaker Attie Louw, has taken the reins from his father, and adopts a high-risk, high-reward approach to crafting site-specific wines. This philosophy has led to the innovative planting of Rhone varietals, such as Roussanne and Carignan, alongside existing plantings of Chenin Blanc, Viognier, Semillon, and Colombard.

Attie is proud in particular, of the vineyard's Chenin Blanc, and it holds a special place in his heart: 

"I have a great love for Chenin blanc and believe it is undoubtedly the variety we do best in SA and that it should be our calling card in the world. Chenin is my focus and we make 3 different examples of it (which includes an old vine classified Single Vineyard wine) and have it as the base of a Cape White blend in another wine. In stead of going out, sourcing from different regions and vineyards, I also have a great passion for our terroir in Slanghoek and my aim is to show (mainly) Chenin (and other wines) from our valley specifically". 

The commitment to showcasing the terroir of Slanghoek drives the estate's mission, with a focus on producing wines that reflect the unique characteristics of their valley.

A Philosophy of Drinkability

For the team at Opstal, winemaking is not just about the end product; it’s also about the experience of enjoying wine. The winemaker believes that wine, its creation, and the people behind it should not be taken too seriously. Instead, he emphasises the importance of drinkability, creating wines that are approachable and enjoyable, allowing consumers to savour each sip. 

Straight from the Vine: hear from Attie Louw! 

Opstal Estate is a true testament to the beauty and richness of the Breedekloof Wine Valley. With its storied history, dedication to sustainable practices, and commitment to crafting exceptional wines, Opstal stands out in South Africa’s vibrant wine landscape. Whether you are a connoisseur or a casual wine drinker, exploring the offerings of Opstal Estate is sure to be a delightful experience, inviting you to raise a glass to history, community, and the joys of drinkability. If you want to find out more about the estate, watch Attie describe the challenges of winemaking on our Instagram channel! 

Check out our selection of incredible Opstal Estate wines here.