Almenkerk Wine Estate: A Family-Owned Jewel in Elgin Valley

Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s cool-climate Elgin Valley, Almenkerk Wine Estate welcomed me with the scent of fynbos, a glass of their vibrant Sauvignon Blanc, and panoramic views of rolling vineyards framed by the Kogelberg Mountains. As a wine enthusiast for CapeVineMaster.co.za, my virtual journey through the estate’s offerings, as showcased on their website almenkerk.co.za, revealed a family-owned haven dedicated to crafting exceptional wines with passion and precision. Founded in 2004 by Joris and Natalie van Almenkerk, Almenkerk blends a rich history, a stunning cellar portfolio, and a host of activities that celebrate its unique terroir. This boutique winery is a must-explore destination, inviting you to sip, savor, and connect with nature in the Western Cape.

A History of Passion and Terroir

Almenkerk Wine Estate’s story began in 2002, when Belgian-Dutch couple Natalie and Joris van Almenkerk relocated to South Africa, driven by a dream to craft premium wines. After searching for the perfect terroir, they discovered a 36-hectare apple farm in Elgin, captivated by its cool climate and potential for viticulture. In 2004, they established Almenkerk, naming it after their family heritage, and transformed the orchard into a thriving vineyard. With 15 hectares now under vine, the estate reflects their commitment to quality, guided by a philosophy of creating wines that respect the land and express Elgin’s unique character.

The van Almenkerk family—Joris, Natalie, patriarch Joep, and daughters Lieselotte and Annelies—runs the estate with a tight-knit spirit, supported by friends who join during harvest. Joris oversees winemaking, Natalie handles sales, marketing, and administration, while Joep mentors and hosts tastings, often at their family-run De Brasserie in Strand. Their collaborative approach, rooted in fun and excellence, has earned Almenkerk a reputation for award-winning wines and a cellar designed by DHK Urban Concepts, an architectural marvel nestled into the mountainside with breathtaking valley views. Originally an apple farm, Almenkerk retains four hectares of Royal Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Pink Lady apples, and Packham Triumph pears, adding charm to its viticultural legacy.

Current Cellar Offerings: A Taste of Elgin’s Terroir

Almenkerk’s cellar, a hub of craftsmanship, produces limited quantities of meticulously crafted wines across three tiers—Lace, Almenkerk, and Flemish Masters—each reflecting Elgin’s cool-climate vibrancy and balance. The estate’s vineyards, planted with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, benefit from high elevation and diurnal temperature swings, creating complex aromas and elegant profiles. Below is a glimpse of their current offerings, as highlighted on their website:

Lace Sauvignon Dry Rosé: A vineyard-driven wine with vibrant red fruit and watermelon aromas, crafted through early picking and individual canopy management for a delicate, refreshing finish.
Sauvignon Blanc: A tropical and floral delight with a delicate mouthfeel, showcasing Elgin’s signature freshness.
Chardonnay: A minimalist masterpiece, featuring wild yeast fermentation in French barriques and 10 months on the lees for citrus fruit, lively acidity, and layered complexity. It rewards cellaring for up to five years.
Merlot: A cool-climate expression with upfront fruity purity, red fruit, blackcurrants, and elegant graphite tannins, supported by attractive wooding.
Syrah: Intense with wild blackberry, violet, and a hint of white pepper, capturing Elgin’s terroir in a bold yet balanced profile.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Premium and full-bodied, aged 23 months in barrels, with ripe strawberry and watermelon aromas for a rich, structured finish.
Flemish Masters Chardonnay: A single-vineyard wine, the ultimate expression of Elgin’s cool climate, offering elegance, complexity, and a core of minerality.

These wines, available for purchase online at almenkerk.co.za with a 20% discount for Ambassadors using a special code, embody the estate’s dedication to quality. Whether enjoyed at the tasting room or shipped to your door, each bottle tells the story of Almenkerk’s passion and Elgin’s terroir.

Activities to Enjoy at Almenkerk

Almenkerk Wine Estate offers a wealth of experiences that invite visitors to connect with its wines, landscape, and family spirit. Located at 50 Viljoenshoop Road, Elgin, the estate is open Tuesday to Saturday (10am–4pm) and Sundays from September, with bookings encouraged at info@almenkerk.co.za or +27 021 848 9844. Here’s a list of activities to savor, as detailed on their website:

Wine Tastings: Relax in the tasting room, described as a cozy “living room,” where Famous Moeketsi, the dynamic tasting room manager, guides you through relaxed or technical tastings. Options cater to all preferences, showcasing the Lace, Almenkerk, and Flemish Masters ranges with stunning valley views.
Cellar Tours: Explore the architectural wonder of the fermentation and maturation cellars, designed to reflect the winemaking process. Family members are often available to answer in-depth questions, offering insights into Almenkerk’s craft.
Vineyard Tours: Available upon request for larger groups, these tours immerse you in the estate’s vineyards and orchards, highlighting sustainable farming practices and Elgin’s terroir.
Scenic Hiking Trail: A 5km trail winds through vineyards, orchards, and around the dam, offering breathtaking views of the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, a UNESCO-protected area. As a WWF Conservation Champion, Almenkerk invites guests to explore its environmental stewardship while enjoying the natural beauty.
Picnics and Relaxation: After tastings or hikes, unwind with a picnic on the estate, savoring wines at cellar prices amidst the serene landscape. The tasting room’s panoramic setting enhances the experience.
Helicopter Arrival: For a thrilling visit, arrive by helicopter from Cape Town, soaring over vineyards and mountains before landing at Almenkerk for a world-class wine experience.
Off-Site Dining at De Brasserie: Visit the family’s Strand restaurant, where Almenkerk wines pair with European-inspired dishes like mussels and chips, extending the estate’s hospitality beyond Elgin.

These activities, paired with the estate’s commitment to sustainability and its proximity to the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, make Almenkerk a destination for wine lovers, adventurers, and those seeking an authentic South African experience.

Final Thoughts

My exploration of Almenkerk Wine Estate through almenkerk.co.za was a love letter to Elgin’s cool-climate charm, leaving me eager to taste their Flemish Masters Chardonnay, hike their scenic trail, and soak in the family’s warmth. The estate’s blend of award-winning wines, architectural elegance, and immersive activities makes it a standout, just 10 minutes from Grabouw. Book your tasting, pack a picnic, and raise a glass to a winery that’s as passionate as its terroir. Almenkerk isn’t just a vineyard—it’s a celebration of family, nature, and exceptional wine.

Plan your visit at almenkerk.co.za and join CapeVineMaster.co.za’s monthly tastings for more wine adventures!