The Bergkelder

Resting comfortably on the slopes of the Papegaaiberg, on the outskirts of the historic old town of Stellenbosch, lies a famous landmark in the winelands. This is The Bergkelder. Founded in 1967, this 'famous cellar in the mountain' was the first of its kind in South Africa and is today home to some of the Cape's finest wines.

The Bergkelder has distinguished itself as an important innovator in the wine industry.

In the 1970s, it played a pivotal role in encouraging South Africa's production of world class wines by persuading grape-growers to introduce the classic noble varieties to their vineyards. Among these varieties are Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.

In 1979, it took the lead by introducing maturation of quality wine in small casks of new French oak and in 1998, The Bergkelder launched its unique range of Fleur du Cap unfiltered wines. These were created with the specific intention of retaining the absolute flavours and varietal character of the grapes.

The Unfiltered range heralds a new style of winemaking with wines with greater complexity and richness. This is achieved by returning to more traditional winemaking practices by relying more on sedimentation, racking and fining as opposed to filtration, thereby maximising the preservation of the colour and flavour elements until the wine is ready for bottling. This natural method of production may result in the development of some sediment in the bottle, in which case decanting would be advised before consumption.

Tel:
+27 21 809 8492
Fax:
+27 21 887 9081

Postal Address:
PO Box 184
Stellenbosch
7599
Republic of South Africa

Directions:
The distance from Cape Town center to Stellenbosch is approximately 50 km. Follow the N1 freeway to Paarl. Turn off at Exit 39 [Stellenbosch] and turn right onto the R304. Follow the road to Stellenbosch. Reaching town, turn right at the third traffic light into Adam Tas road. Continue and turn right at the second traffic light (first road that turns right) and continue accross the railway crossing, making an immediate left after the crossing into The Bergkelder's premises.