Nestled along Stellenbosch’s iconic Helderberg Wine Route, less than 5 kilometers from the False Bay coastline, Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate is renowned for producing elegant, terroir-driven wines. Crafted by young winemaker, Vusi Dalicuba, the estate’s 2022 Vergenoegd Löw Lara Cabernet Sauvignon is making waves in the world of wine. In fact, it recently scored 95 points at the Next Generation Awards 2024. It also won gold at the Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Competition.
A Unique Terroir Shaped by the Sea
Of course, it’s Vergenoegd Löw’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean that plays a pivotal role in shaping the character of its wines. Dalicuba says: “The winds off the Atlantic create a cooler environment, sometimes by as much as 3°C compared to the rest of Stellenbosch. This, combined with our calcareous soils rich in sea fossils, results in graceful, harmonious wines with excellent acidity.”
The vineyard’s low-lying position, just 12 meters above sea level, allows the vines to benefit from these cooler conditions. Ultimately, it results in fresh, elegant and balanced wines. In addition, the estate’s regenerative farming practices further enhance the health of the soil, promoting biodiversity and climate resilience.
Tasting Notes: 2022 Vergenoegd Löw Lara Cabernet Sauvignon
Aged in a combination of new and older oak for 18 months, the 2022 vintage delivers an intense concentration of black and red fruit flavours. These are complemented by herbal undertones and dark chocolate nuances. According to Dalicuba, the wine’s chalky tannins and a subtle salinity on the palate can be attributed to the influence of the ocean. “This is definitely a wine with the structure to age,” he says.
The wine’s versatility makes it ideal for pairing with various dishes. Dalicuba suggests serving it alongside hearty meals like grilled steaks, lamb chops, casseroles, and mature cheeses.
Continuing a Legacy of Excellence
Vergenoegd Löw’s reputation for producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon dates back to the Faure family. They owned the estate for nearly 200 years. In 1972, the fifth generation of the family, Jac and Brand Faure, planted Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards, winning numerous accolades. That included the General Smuts Trophy. The estate’s legacy continues under the ownership of German heritage specialist Prof Dr Dr Peter Löw, who purchased the farm in 2015. Since then, they’ve undertaken extensive vineyard replanting and today, 51 hectares of vineyards flourish at Vergenoegd Löw, with 75% planted to red varieties. The leading red, of course: Cabernet Sauvignon. Dalicuba says that their vineyards are mapped according to soil type. This ensures that each grape variety is matched to its optimal growing conditions.
Experience Vergenoegd Löw Wines
To experience the award-winning Vergenoegd Löw Lara Cabernet Sauvignon, you can purchase a bottle directly from the estate’s online shop.
Alternatively, if you’re keen on a more immersive experience, why not visit Vergenoegd Löw and enjoy a personal wine tasting with the estate’s award-winning sommelier, George Young? He was recently named South Africa’s Best Young Sommelier of 2024, after all.
You can also indulge in a meal at one of the estate’s two restaurants, Geuwels or Clara’s Barn, both helmed by celebrated chefs Bertus Basson and Drikus Brink.
If you are looking for something truly unique, try the Indigenous Tasting Experience at the estate. This is where you can pair wines with local delicacies like bokkoms, biltong and roosterkoek, or savour a generous platter featuring artisanal cured meats, cheeses and fresh fruit.
While all wines tell the story of their terroir, Vergenoegd Löw is definitely a wine estate where you can truly experience not only the wine, but also the place.
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