In the valley and mountain slopes, this family estate offers a range of soils, aspects, and climatic conditions, ideally suited to the quality white and red grape varieties grown here.
The farm’s position provides unique climatic conditions because here is where the Breede River Valley narrows. The funnel effect that is created gives Bergsig cooling winds in summer and sufficient rainfall to require only supplementary irrigation when necessary. This coupled with access to mountain hillsides, means the main ingredients for quality are in place.
The soil is defined by a major geological fault, the Worcester Fault, which runs through the valley. Hills are composed of weathered sandstone and the valley floor is sedimented by a diversity of soil parent materials.
A variety of soils exist and the vineyards have been sited where generations of experience show they produce the best results. Vineyard management is focused not only on ensuring the best possible grape quality, but also on conservation, and the farm is, therefore, IPW certified, as a user of environmentally friendly farming methods. Over 437 hectares of mountain, river, and valley terrain have been restored to its natural habitat through the elimination of alien species.
Mediterranean climate with ± 980mm rainfall per year.
The Estate is located on the upper slopes of the Breede River Valley at 240 – 350m above sea level.
Winters are cold with snow until late in Spring. Temperatures during Spring are low resulting in slower ripening. Harvest usually starts 2 – 3 weeks later than other wine areas. Significant temperature variation with warm days ensures good sugar development while the drop in temperature at night preserves the balance of natural acids in the grapes.