Alluvia Specialist Winery
The name “Alluvia”, derived from the Latin, alluvius, meaning "to wash against", is a process where soil or sediments are deposited over many patient years by running water to create magnificent fertile soils. Hence Alluvial diamonds, Alluvial Gold and now a world first… Alluvial Wines!
This rare tiny fertile deposit, combined with the major underlying soil structure of granite in the mountains and Table Mountain Sandstone, has culminated into a special patch of terroir in the Banhoek Valley. In recognition of this natural process, the name of the estate was changed to Alluvia as this natural phenomenon shared some parallels with the crafting of great red wines – allowing nature to take its course and patience.
The owner, Mr. Delarey Brugman searched high and low throughout the cape winelands for the perfect soil type, to realise his dream of creating an ultimate wine (including the use of state-of-the-art satellite technology to determine correct soil types). He finally discovered a small piece of land within the Banhoek Valley, formerly known as Glen Arum which showed a promise of unique and superlative soil types.
Situated in the Banhoek Valley between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek on the Helshoogte Pass, Alluvia is blessed with unsurpassed views. The farm rests 600 feet above Stellenbosch and 6.5km from the historic town. Protected by the prevailing summer and winter winds, the Banhoek Valley is surrounded by the Simonsberg Mountain as well as Botmaskop and the Groot Drakenstein mountain range. The small wine farm is surrounded by only six other wine producers, including renowned estates, Tokara and world-class winery Thelema Mountain Vineyards with promising newcomer Delaire segregated by the Helshoogte Pass.
After original ownership by Catherine Heywood, remembered as one of the greatest authors of her era, the farm was passed down to Catherine’s son, Christopher Heywood, also an acclaimed author. It was here that Catherine Heywood went onto establish the first Montessori School in South Africa , with the current Manor House’s veranda acting as classroom during summer and in the dining room during winter days. The local folk’s children were included with adjacent farm owners’ children. The homestead, which is monument today, built in 1914 serves as home to Delarey Brugman’s family.
Alluv
ia Winery Glen Arum Road, Helshoogte Pass, Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch, South Africa
Tel: +27 21 885-1661
Fax: +27 21 885-2064
Web: www.alluvia.co.za
