Vergenoegd Löw, a historic Stellenbosch estate, is redefining winemaking with a forward-thinking “back to the future” approach that integrates diverse elements of nature into its farming practices.
From Dexter cattle grazing on cover crops to Indian Runner ducks controlling vineyard pests, the estate’s innovative strategy embraces a holistic ecosystem to enhance soil health, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Managing director Corius Visser leads this transformation, blending traditional techniques with modern technology to produce wines that reflect the estate’s rich heritage.
Located just 3.5 kilometres from the cooling False Bay coastline, Vergenoegd Löw benefits from its unique microclimate. The estate experiences temperatures up to 3°C cooler in summer than other Stellenbosch areas, thanks to the prevailing south-easterly winds. These winds not only cool the vines but also reduce the risk of vine disease, providing ideal conditions for optimal grape ripeness.
Transforming winemaking with sustainable practices
Since German entrepreneur Professor Peter Löw acquired the 160-hectare estate in 2015, Vergenoegd Löw has undergone a significant transformation. With a complete replanting of the vines – now covering nearly 55 hectares – Löw brought in Visser to spearhead a new vision for the estate.
This vision blends time-honoured practices with cutting-edge techniques to produce wines that reflect the estate’s nearly 330-year legacy.
Visser describes the estate’s approach as a fusion of heritage and innovation.
“Our method combines traditional practices with precision tools and a fresh understanding of climate, soil, and crop relationships,” he explains. “This integration allows us to produce wines that are true to our terroir and heritage.”
The estate’s soils, situated at the mouth of the Eerste River, are notably rich in lime, contributing to the wines’ distinctive perfume and elegance. These calcareous soils are well-draining, retaining moisture during dry periods and cooling vine roots in the heat, which is crucial for maintaining vine health and grape quality.
As part of the estate’s commitment to regenerative agriculture, only the ancient blue gums – known for their water-absorbing capabilities – are retained. These trees play a vital role in managing the water table and mitigating flooding, a key consideration given the estate’s low elevation.
The farm also features several ponds linked to the natural vlei and river through a network of water-drainage channels. These channels, planted with indigenous reeds and grasses, create eco-corridors that filter water, prevent soil erosion, and support local wildlife.
Integrated approach to biodiversity
Vergenoegd Löw’s dedication to sustainability extends to its gardens and open spaces, where indigenous plants are cultivated to support honeybees and promote biodiversity.
Additionally, the estate’s Dexter cattle, introduced in 2022, graze on cover crops and veld, aiding in soil fertility and reducing the need for herbicides. Indian Runner ducks, part of the estate’s integrated pest management system, help control vineyard pests while enriching the soil.
The estate is also experimenting with various cover crop combinations to minimise soil disturbance and maintain soil structure. Current trials include hardy, low-maintenance plants such as kooigoed (Helichrysum petiolare) and future plantings like buchu (Agathosma renulata) and lavender.
Under Visser’s guidance, Vergenoegd Löw is embracing a philosophy of balance – living and farming in harmony with nature while producing exceptional wines.
“We are content, living and farming in balance, and savouring wines that reflect our special enclave within the Helderberg Wine Route,” Visser concludes.
With a dedicated team, including winemaker Vusi Dalicuba and farm manager Christiaan Cloete, the Western Cape estate continues to pioneer sustainable winemaking practices while honouring its storied past.
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