A new chapter is unfolding at Cape Point Vineyards. In 2022, South African entrepreneur Stephen Newton became a co-owner of the estate. For him, it was not only the realisation of a childhood dream but also a deeply held determination to make a difference and honour the legacy of his grandfather, Alexander Moir.
In late January, my husband Guy and I were invited to the launch of The Alexander Estate, a luxury boutique destination located at Cape Point Vineyards named in honour of Stephen's grandfather. It was a true fairy-tale event, held on their stunning new Cellarmaster's deck. The food was a classic South African braai, and Cape Point Vineyards wines were, of course, flowing.
But what moved me was Stephen’s energy and vision – not only for the estate but for the broader community – as well as the warmth and friendliness of the entire team. I knew I had to find out more.
In these economically uncertain times, it's heartening to see new investment like this and the trust it shows in South Africa. There’s a clear trend of South Africans returning home after time abroad. Although Stephen still lives in London, where his management consulting firm Elixirr is based, his heart is firmly in South Africa – and, specifically, in Noordhoek.
Cape Point Vineyards, previously known as Good Hope Farm, was owned by Stephen’s grandfather Alexander Moir in the 1960s. A boilermaker by profession, specialising in ship construction in Cape Town, Alexander gave it all up to pursue his dream of farming in the countryside. These were happy times, but farming is not for the faint-hearted. Unpredictable weather, fluctuating markets, and financial pressures eventually forced the family to sell.
For Stephen, his grandfather's story has always been a source of inspiration. Alexander taught him resilience and the importance of dreaming big and aiming high. Listening to stories of his grandparents, Stephen made a promise to himself that one day, he would honour their legacy. As he put it: "You know, as a child you make childish little bets with yourself, and I thought, one day I’ll buy that farm back. So that’s kind of what I’ve done now."
Thanks to his success with Elixirr – now a globally awarded consultancy – Stephen was able to fulfil that promise. Through a bold joint venture with Cape Point Vineyards, originally established and developed by Sybrand van der Spuy in 1996, he took control of the wine business and reclaimed the old Manor House.
Cape Point Vineyards has long been recognised for its award-winning Sauvignon Blanc and other premium wines. As wine collector Daryl Balfour once wrote on the WhatsWine WhatsApp group: "Cape Point Vineyards has proved over and over that they have the perfect terroir for Sauvie."
If you’ve visited Cape Point Vineyards recently, you’ll have noticed the newly completed stately deck offering some of the best sea and mountain views in the region. Their state-of-the-art accommodations are also nearing completion.
Stephen, however, is an entrepreneur and businessman at heart. His goal is to ensure the estate and its wines are profitable, avoiding the classic "ROE" (Return on Ego). Cape Point Vineyards' location is truly unique – not only for its spectacular views but also for its proximity to the city, creating a rare tourism opportunity.
Stephen strongly believes in community and teamwork, which is clear in his interactions, from his senior team to the on-site builders. He is committed to creating meaningful connections through local collaborations and empowerment initiatives. Another trait inherited from his grandfather. "Alexander always wanted to help people," Stephen said. "He always had a connection to the land and the community."
The wines remain at the core of the enterprise and are in good hands. The dedicated team includes talented winemakers Riandri and Anzette Visser, and expert viticulturist Steffan Lochner, who will soon celebrate his 10th anniversary as farm manager. A few years ago, Hannes Meyer joined the team as CEO and cellarmaster.
A great deal of work is happening in the vineyard to ensure Cape Point’s iconic wines remain just that – iconic. Around 30% of the vineyards are being uprooted and replanted with carefully selected clones to elevate quality. One exciting development is their focus on Sauvignon Gris, with Cape Point among the first South African farms to receive cuttings.
There’s a rare synergy between Riandri, Anzette, and Steffan. Over the years, they’ve developed a deep understanding of each parcel of land, allowing them to make incredibly precise decisions during harvest.
As Riandri shared: "Sometimes it doesn’t even matter if I’m in France or Cape Town – if I close my eyes, I can imagine each block. I can feel my boots on the soil. I remember the smells, the breeze, the feeling… and how the vineyards work."
She adds: "At Cape Point, we go up the mountain slope – about 260 meters above sea level at the highest block. That’s where the Isliedh comes from. It’s a special place. You start at the bottom of the farm with darker, sandy soils that give more vigour – those vineyards produce more fruit-driven expression."
The diverse soils, microclimates, and mesoclimates demand precision and ongoing learning. Each year, the team understands the land a little more deeply, and this knowledge is what continues to build the estate’s exceptional reputation.
Watch this space. I, for one, can’t wait to see The Alexander Manor House and Vineyard Villa, where no expense has been spared to ensure guests enjoy the very best. This is shaping up to be a truly world-class destination – one that perfectly complements its special wines.
Photos: All photos were taken by Christine Lundy.