The wines from Hout Bay Vineyards are primarily available on open days but Peter and Cathy also accommodate those who have run low on stock at other times. They welcome visits, tastings and sales, by appointment only.
Long ago, in 2001, Peter and Cathy began excavations for their dream house at the top of Grotto Road, Hout Bay. It was hard work and Skoorsteenkop seemed reluctant to give up its immense boulders, which had been strewn across the slopes for thousands of years. They planted their first vines in September of 2003, aiming to produce their favourite beverage… bubbly!
Just as the first grapes were about to be harvested, herbicide was used to spray the vines instead of pesticide. The once luxuriant vineyard was gradually reduced to a field of dead, grey vegetation. Three years of backbreaking work lay decaying at their feet. With steely resolve, Peter and Cathy ripped out all the vines and planted new ones. With no harvest of their own expected for some time, they brought in grapes in 2004. The wine was made and laid down to ‘bottle-ferment and rest’ for three years.
The setback delayed the first harvest, and as such, the first grapes were harvested from their own vines in January 2008. The maiden vintage was available in the summer of 2011.
The official opening of Hout Bay Vineyards was on 1 December 2007. The occasion marked the release of their 2004 bubbly. Hout Bay Vineyards also formed alliances with other vineyards in the valley and their Sauvignon Blanc, made from grapes harvested at “Vineyard on Victoria” was released on the same day. May 2008 marked the first winter open day which saw the release of their first Reds, a Cabernet Sauvignon, and a Bordeaux style red blend.
In 2012, Cathy and Peter completed their cellar extensions and now have extra storage capacity for bottled wine. The naturally cooled underground cellar means their wine will always be kept and aged in perfect conditions until it reaches the consumer.
Today, Cathy and Peter continue to pour their hearts into Hout Bay Vineyards, nurturing it into a cherished local institution. Their dedication has not only endured, but flourished.
Harvest season at Hout Bay Vineyards is a celebration of family and community. Children, relatives, and friends gather to take part in the joyful traditions—where helping out feels more like joining a festive occasion.
Wines are primarily available during open days, but for those who find themselves running low, Peter and Cathy are happy to accommodate. Visitors, tastings, and purchases are warmly welcomed—just be sure to schedule an appointment.
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