The Darling wine region reached a major milestone in November when Groote Post celebrated its 15th vintage. Groote Post was one of the first wineries to emerge as a leading producer of Sauvignon Blanc on the West Coast, releasing its first vintage to the public in 1999. The winery has survived, thanks to the Pentz family’s ability to stay ahead of the wave of changes that affected the wine industry over the last couple of years.

When the Pentz family bought the historic Groote Post back in 1972, they were dairy farmers and wine wasn’t even a dream. Fortunately for the wine industry, dairy farming is as terroir “driven” as the wine industry. For years they were unaware of the rich wine-growing potential in the hills above the estate, but Peter Pentz is a man of vision, and by 1992 after extensive soil testing of the entire 5 300-hectare farm, they identified the best areas and aspects of the farm and during the 1990’s planted 117 hectares of noble cultivars.

It was the move, in the late 1990’s, to winemaking that precipitated the Pentz familys’ extrication from the milk business. “Nobody has ever told me they like my creamy milk, as they do with the Groote Post wines”, says Peter Pentz, explaining the emotional decision to sell off this West Coast farms’ famous Holstein herd.

Now operated by Peter’s son Nick Pentz, Groote Post is gearing up for the next 15 years with winemaker, Lukas Wentzel, and a new dedication to producing ultra high quality aromatic wines. As the Groote Post team rejoice and anticipate the outstanding wine to come, they’re celebrating the 2013 vintage with a new look.

“Our new labels depict a return to a more classic style of label which better reflects our rich heritage at Groote Post and our strong family values. The prominent historic Groote Post slave bell, engraved with the date 1706, communicates our centuries old history and the old-world ambience of Groote Post. We have also clearly defined our three wine ranges: The Old Man’s Blend range, the Groote Post varietal range and our flagship Kapokberg Vineyard Selection range, our Reserve range which we have named after the highest hill on the estate where some of our best grapes are grown”, says Nick Pentz.

Apart from its award-winning wines, Groote Post also offers farm drives in a bona fide game vehicle. Visitors can spot the game to which Groote Post is home, namely: Eland, Kudu, Gemsbok, Bontebok, Springbok, Red Hartebeest, Ostrich, Black Wildebeest as well as Quaggas.

After soaking up the glory of nature, guests can enjoy a hearty country style meal at Hilda’s Kitchen, situated a stones’ throw away from the tasting room. With other offerings such as cheese platters, picnics and spectacular views of the Atlantic coast and Table Mountain, Groote Post is the ideal destination for those who enjoy fines wines, warm hospitality and memorable experiences.