From vine to glass: Exciting new plantings and Jordan’s latest wins

Friday, 5 September, 2025
Jordan Wine Estate
New vineyard plantings, a new release, Tim Atkin ratings, and upcoming events. Find out what's going on at Jordan Wine Estate.

Exciting new plantings: Xinomavro and Mencía

There’s a special kind of excitement in the vineyards at Jordan Wine Estate – the kind that comes with planting for the future. Over the past few month, Gary and the team have been carefully establishing new mother blocks, introducing varieties that will both honour our heritage and embrace innovation.

We planted South Africa’s very first Xinomavro mother block. Native to Northern Greece, this noble grape – whose name translates to “sour black” – is celebrated for its structure, age-worthiness, and versatility, producing everything from elegant reds and rosés to sparkling wines. Often compared to Nebbiolo or Pinot Noir, Xinomavro carries a character that is uniquely its own, and we are eager to see how it will express itself in the Stellenbosch terroir.

Alongside it, another first for Jordan has quietly taken root: Mencía. Originally from the slopes of northwest Spain and Portugal, this variety is renowned for its vibrant red fruit, fresh acidity, and floral elegance. Now, for the first time, it begins its story on
our soil.

Chardonnay, a cornerstone of our estate and a variety that has long thrived on our slopes, have been planted on our new terraces to ensure its continued legacy in our vineyards. Looking ahead, Cinsault and Cabernet Franc will soon follow, further broadening the palate of flavours and styles that we can craft for years to come.

Each of these plantings represents more than just new vines in the ground. They are a promise – of resilience in the face of climate change, of diversity in our winemaking, and of continuing the Jordan tradition of balancing classic varieties with bold new ideas.

Follow us in Instagram to learn more!

New vintage release: Jordan Assyrtiko 2025

Adding to the excitement in the cellar, we are delighted to share the release of the 2025 vintage of our Assyrtiko. First planted at Jordan in 2019, this was the very first mother block of Assyrtiko in South Africa – a true milestone for both our estate and the country’s wine landscape.

Thriving on dry, windy, north-facing slopes with views stretching towards the sea, this ancient Greek variety has found a remarkable home in Stellenbosch. Each vintage captures the essence of its Mediterranean heritage while telling a new story rooted in our terroir. With its crisp acidity, mineral character, and vibrant energy, the 2025 Assyrtiko reflects not only the pioneering spirit of Jordan but also our vision of moving towards a regenerative and sustainable future.

Cost: R290 per bottle

Click HERE to order it online.

Tim Atkin’s 2025 South Africa Special Report

We are proud to share that Jordan was recognised in the Top 4 for Best Cellar Door Experience in Tim Atkin MW’s 2025 South Africa Special Report – a true testament to the passion and dedication our team brings to every guest who visits us.

At The Cellar Door, you can enjoy our wines at cellar door prices alongside chef Thys Esterhuysen’s seasonal menu, crafted around the freshest ingredients. From daily specials to generous sharing platters, paired with exciting wine-tasting options, The Cellar Door is open seven days a week for relaxed, all-day dining.

Alongside this, our wines shone brightly once again with exceptional scores, including:

  • 2021 Jordan Sophia – 96 points
  • 2024 Timepiece OVP Sauvignon Blanc – 95 points
  • 2024 Jordan Assyrtiko – 94 points
  • 2022 Jordan Cobblers Hill – 94 points
  • 2023 Timepiece OVP Chardonnay – 94 points
  • 2023 Timepiece OVP Chenin Blanc – 94 points
  • 2024 Jordan Inspector Péringuey Chenin Blanc – 93 points
  • 2023 Jordan Nine Yards Chardonnay – 93 points
  • 2024 Jordan The Outlier Sauvignon Blanc – 93 points
  • 2022 Jordan The Prospector Syrah – 93 points
  • 2024 Jordan The Real McCoy Riesling – 92 points
  • 2024 Jordan Barrel-Fermented Chardonnay – 91 points
  • 2024 Jordan Dry Rosé – 91 points

We’re proud to see our wines and experiences recognised at this level, and we look forward to continuing to raise a glass with you in the winelands.

Celebrating 10 years of the Wine Forum

This winter we hosted the 10th edition of the Wine Forum, and we want to extend a sincere thank you to all the wineries, Riedel, speakers, and everyone involved!

The Wine Forum has come a long way since it began at Jordan Wine Estate a decade ago, and it's grown into something really meaningful – a space where young, aspiring wine professionals can connect, learn, and be inspired by some of the best in the industry. Over the past decade, we’ve had the privilege of introducing more than 100 young, industry-related enthusiasts – from waiters and wine advisors to butlers – to a high-level, hands-on interaction with South Africa’s best regional wines and leading winemakers and representatives.

This year’s Forum brought together an amazing group of speakers – Stuart Botha (Tokara), Danie Steytler Jnr (Kaapzicht), Johan Kruger (Kruger Family Wines), Shane Mumba (SA Brandy Association), François Rautenbach (Agile Minds), and Spencer Fondaumiere (former chair of the South Africa Sommeliers Association) – who generously shared their knowledge and passion.

One such success story comes from Jean Freysen, who attended a previous Wine Forum with a love for wine but little formal training. “The Wine Forum was a great platform to ignite my passion for wine,” Jean shares. “It opened my eyes to how wine should taste, how it should be presented, and what it takes to run a great winery. It showed me there are countless opportunities within the industry.”

We’re excited about what the next ten years will bring!

Capreo update: Jordan wines now in the UK and EU

We’re excited to announce that our wines are now available through CAPREO, one of Europe’s leading specialists in premium South African wines. Whether in the UK, Germany, France, or beyond, wine lovers can now order our full range online with safe, reliable delivery straight to their door.

Click HERE to shop.

Use code Jordan10 for 10% off your first order.

Escape to The Villa at Jordan: Now bookable via Perfect Hideaways

Perched atop the estate with panoramic views of vineyards, valleys, and mountains, The Villa at Jordan Wine Estate offers a private, luxury getaway for families and friends. This contemporary farmhouse blends modern elegance with countryside calm, featuring five en-suite bedrooms, an open-plan living and dining area, a stunning swimming pool, and spaces designed for long, lazy holidays.

Your stay includes estate wine tastings, daily breakfasts, and access to bespoke experiences – from guided vineyard safaris to private dining with the chef. Perfect for multigenerational escapes or celebrations, The Villa is your gateway to the heart of the Cape Winelands.

Click HERE to book your unforgettable stay.

End-of-year functions

As the year winds down, gather your colleagues, friends, or family for an unforgettable year-end function at Jordan Wine Estate. From breathtaking vineyard views to award-winning wines and bespoke dining experiences, we’ll help you toast to the year that’s been and the new one ahead. Whether you’re envisioning a relaxed picnic on the lawns, a festive lunch, or an exclusive private event, our team will ensure it’s a celebration to remember.

Contact events@jordanwines.com to enquire about our event packages.

Upcoming events

Stellenbosch Kloof 5km Run

Lace up and join us this Heritage Day, Wednesday, 24 September 2025, for the very first Stellenbosch Kloof 5km Fun Run – a celebration of fresh starts, new roads, and community spirit!

After a winter of rebuilding, the newly completed Stellenbosch Kloof Road is ready to be enjoyed – and what better way than with a fun run? Starting and finishing at Jordan Wine Estate, the route takes you along the new road, then off-trail through the scenic Stellenbosch Kloof and the rolling vineyards of De Waal, Super Single Vineyards, and De Morgenzon.

Wednesday, 24 September 2025 | 08h00 | R200 pp

Click HERE to book.

Run and Ride for Renosterveld

Join us for the Jordan Run or Ride for Renosterveld on Sunday, 26 October 2025 at Jordan Wine Estate! Support conservation while enjoying a scenic day in the Stellenbosch hills.

Cyclists can choose between two exhilarating routes – a 34km ride starting at 07h30 or a slightly shorter 22km route kicking off at 07h45.

Tickets are R380 per rider and entries are capped at 100 cyclists, so early booking is essential. These routes are not for beginners, promising a rewarding challenge with stunning views along the way.

For the first time, runners can also join in the action with a 5km fun run starting at 08h30. The route will be confirmed soon, but expect a scenic and enjoyable trail. Runner tickets are R180 each, also limited to 100 entries.

Sunday, 26 October 2025 | 07h45 | From R180 pp

Click HERE to book.

The Schultz Brothers Winemakers' Dinner at The Jordan Restaurant with Marthinus Ferreira

Brothers Rudi Schultz of Schultz Family Wines and Gunter Schultz of Baleia Wines – both from a family of renowned winemakers – will be showcasing a selection of their favourite wines at The Jordan Restaurant with Marthinus Ferreira. Each will be paired with Marthinus’s bold, flavour-driven dishes, served sharing-style for a truly memorable dining experience.

Expect exceptional food, outstanding wines, and a lively evening in the heart of the winelands.

Friday, 26 September 2025 | 18h30 | R1 250 pp | Excludes other drinks, gratuity and conservation levy

Click HERE to book.