We are ecstatic to share that Hartenberg has become the first wine farm in South Africa – and only the second in the world – to achieve regenerative verification under the Ecological Outcome Verification (EOV) framework. This scientifically rigorous process measures and monitors tangible ecological improvements, making this a significant milestone for both our estate and the local wine industry!
Through innovative regenerative practices, scientific verification, and measurable outcomes, we aim not only to manage our environmental impact but to inspire transformation in agriculture. These methods restore ecosystems, produce exceptional wines, and set a new standard for regenerative viticulture.
Regeneration has been our core philosophy since the Mackenzie family purchased the estate in 1987. Tanya Browne (née Mackenzie) explains, “The focus is on working with nature. The estate’s now-verified regenerative viticulture practices emphasise long-term sustainability, achieved by enhancing soil health, increasing biodiversity, and improving ecosystems.”
Our regenerative approach includes cover crops, holistically planned livestock grazing, minimum-till methods, organic composting, eliminating chemical pesticides and fertilisers, and enahancing biodiversity to create a balanced ecosystem. These efforts are all geared toward healthier soils for healthier vine growth and long-term sustainability, and also offer further ecological, economic, and social advantages.
As an example, by increasing carbon sequestration – capturing and storing carbon from the atmosphere in the soil – our practices help mitigate climate change, improve soil carbon levels and health, and build ecosystem resilience. We also improve water retention which reduces erosion, water runoff, and irrigation needs. Organic waste composting improves soil structure and boosts yields. The benefits go even further, reducing reliance on agrochemicals, enhancing biodiversity, and ensuring market differentiation.
Measurable impact, scientifically verified
Our regenerative practices have yielded measurable environmental and agricultural benefits, now verified through EOV.
The EOV framework verifies the real-world outcomes of our regenerative practices. This global, scientifically rigorous, outcomes-based verification evaluates ecological benefits like soil carbon levels and health, water infiltration, ground cover, and biodiversity using data, metrics and analysis. Operated by the Savory Institute and supported locally by TruQuest, EOV provides a accurate and independent annual assessment of these efforts, and long-term evaluations conducted every five years.
Rolf Pretorius, director at TruQuest, explains, “Unlike process-based certifications, EOV’s outcomes-based verification ensures that regenerative practices deliver tangible environmental benefits, such as improved biodiversity, soil health and carbon levels, and water management. This approach allows Hartenberg to effectively demonstrate the measurable impacts of regenerative practices. In addition to verification, the EOV processes produce actionable insights for informed decision-making to sustain ongoing soil regeneration.”
A team effort
This achievement would not have been possible without the incredible dedication of our team. We are profoundly grateful to everyone who played a role in reaching this milestone. Above all, we extend our deepest gratitude to Wilhelm Joubert, our viticulturist and the true pioneer of regenerative viticulture in South Africa.
Wilhelm has not only conceptualised, managed and implemented the regenerative efforts but has also been the driving force behind every step of this journey. His expertise, commitment, and passion for the land has been instrumental in our success and set a benchmark for the entire South African wine industry.
Our regenerative viticulture practices
Since 2010, we’ve incorporated multi-species cover crops to improve soil structure, enhance biodiversity, and provide fodder, significantly reducing herbicide usage, minimising chemical fertilisers, and improving soil health and water retention.
In 2017, we introduced holistic, controlled grazing. Carefully managed cattle grazing adds nutrients to the soil, stimulates plant growth, and aerates the soil. Initial soil analyses have already shown a positive impact on both plant and soil health.
For over 20 years, we’ve used natural predators – ladybirds, wasps, and owls – to maintain virus- , pest-, and rodent-free vineyards while promoting biodiversity and a balanced ecosystem. Additionally, our composting initiatives convert food and plant waste into nutrient-rich mulch, reducing waste and enhancing soil health.
A decade-long project to clear invasive species has revitalised our 65-hectare wetland area. This undertaking has led to the return of indigenous flora and fauna, enhanced water retention, and improved ecosystem health.
Enhancing wine quality through regeneration
At Hartenberg, the pursuit of quality wine is intrinsically tied to the health of our environment. While research is ongoing, initial studies in collaboration with Stellenbosch University revealed that improved soil health in vineyards where cattle grazed has a noteworthy influence on the flavour profile, aroma and chemistry of wine.
For example, grapes from grazed vineyard blocks have elegant, fresher flavours and aromas, improved chemistry, and a softer, smoother texture, making it even more enjoyable to drink. The grapes also ripen with lower sugar levels for balanced, well-rounded wines with ideal acidity and slightly lower alcohol content.
As Tanya notes, “This connection between soil health and wine quality underscores the importance of ecological balance in winemaking. The results show that when the environment thrives, so does the quality of our wine.”
Addressing climate change
Viticulture faces rising temperatures and declining rainfall, but we believe regenerative farming is part of the solution. “Healthy soil and land are essential assets for both the environment and the long-term success of the farm,” says Wilhelm. By improving soil carbon levels and water retention, we’re strengthening our vines to withstand the challenges of heat and drought.
Leading the way in regenerative viticulture
“For Hartenberg, this verification reinforces our core philosophy of regeneration,” Tanya concludes. “For wine lovers – increasingly looking for responsibly-made wines that are also healthier and more enjoyable – it is an assurance of our dedication to environmentally responsible and sustainable winemaking.
“It also sets a new benchmark for regenerative agricultural practices in viticulture in South Africa and beyond, and positions Hartenberg as a local and global leader in ecological stewardship and climate resilience.”