7 July 2004

The main source of grapes for Cloof wines, other than our own vineyards, is our neighbouring farm, Burghers Post. This farm comprises about 210 hectares of vineyards, most of which were established under the management of Peter Duckitt between 1998 and 2000.

The manor house was built in the 18th century, and was given a Herbert Baker renovation in the late 1800s, which has resulted in an unusual architectural fusion. Two self-catering flatlets have been created overlooking the farm dam, and will be available for rental later in 2004.

Many of the Cape’s best wine farms were identified as prime farming land as early as the 17th and 18th centuries by settlers who had the pick of the entire countryside. Along with properties like Groote Post, Burghers Post was one of the original farms in Darling. Vineyards are relatively new to Darling, but the unique style and quality of the region’s wines is such that Darling was declared an appellation in its own right in 2003.

Burghers Post’s vineyards are planted on the undulating eastern and south-eastern slopes of Dassenberg, giving a wider range of aspects than we have at Cloof. Unlike Cloof, the majority of the vineyards are both trellised and irrigated. The benefit of the latter is that vineyards can be helped through periods of stress during heat waves.

Burghers Post grapes – mainly Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage and Shiraz – comprise about 25% of the Cloof harvest. In 2003 they were used only for Dusty Road wines, but a few parcels of 2004 Shiraz were taken to barrel, and are looking extremely promising. There is unquestionably something very special about Darling Shiraz.

Peter Duckitt found himself being thrust into the role of winemaker this year, when he was left with about 400kg of Shiraz grapes for which we didn’t have space at Cloof. Rather than dump the grapes he did a garagiste job on them, with admirable results. Two barrels of 2004 Burghers Post Shiraz are now awaiting staff consumption. Peter has also assumed responsibility for the management of Cloof vineyards, but has declined any involvement in the cellar, to winemaker Christopher van Dieren’s relief!

The northern Rhône theme is being carried further. This year a large block of Viognier is being planted at Burghers Post.

Planning for the 2005 harvest has already started. As we get more experience with individual blocks – and the vines get older – we expect great things from Burghers Post fruit.