Each season brings its own pace and character, shaped by climate, soil and careful hands. The 2026 vintage has called for focus and adaptability, and in return has delivered fruit of remarkable concentration and balance. In this edition, we share reflections from the cellar and the vines, a beautiful recipe for the weekend, and a look at upcoming events.
A word from #Harvest2026
"The 2026 harvest began earlier than any the team has experienced before, with the first grapes destined for Cap Classique harvested on 31 December 2025. Dry, warm summer conditions accelerated ripening across the vineyards, with several cultivars reaching maturity simultaneously, creating a particularly busy period in the cellar. A few warm days in January and early February pushed ripening further, with sugars rising quickly and acidity softening. Despite the pace, flavour and colour development in the berries remained excellent, promising wines of depth and intensity.
By mid-February, temperatures cooled and welcome rainfall arrived, bringing brief relief in the cellar. As the harvest draws to a close, the season will likely be remembered as exceptionally early and fast-paced, producing grapes with notable concentration and character."
- Deborah Isaacs, viticulturist
"The first grapes, Chardonnay destined for Cap Classique, were pressed on 31 December 2025, with most vineyards ripening around ten days earlier than the previous season. One of the defining characteristics of the vintage has been the naturally vibrant acidity and balanced pH levels of the fruit, providing a strong foundation for wines with clarity, structure and longevity.
The white wines are already showing expressive aromatics and pleasing concentration, largely due to smaller berries and the natural balance of the season. Some later white varieties were harvested slightly earlier following rainfall towards the end of February, in order to preserve fruit quality. The red wines followed a similar rhythm. Merlot ripened beautifully, showing depth of colour and flavour alongside balanced sugar and acidity.
For a short period, the final Merlot, Cabernet Franc and the first Cabernet Sauvignon ripened simultaneously, placing pressure on cellar intake; however, careful coordination between vineyard and cellar ensured the fruit was received at the right moment. Early impressions suggest that 2026 will be a vintage of very promising quality."
- Dawie Botha, head winemaker
What we are drinking now
Jean Roi Cap Provincial Rosé 2025
A delicate blush-pink rosé with bright notes of ruby grapefruit and raspberry. Fresh and lively on the palate, with gentle citrus zest and a subtle floral edge. A beautifully balanced wine with a clean, dry finish.
Click HERE to shop.
Cape of Good Hope Riebeeksrivier Caroline 2023
Layered and expressive, with aromas of marmalade, lime zest and roasted nuts. The palate shows grilled peach, citrus and a touch of honey, supported by a textured mouthfeel and elegant structure.
Click HERE to shop.
Cape of Good Hope Serruria Chardonnay 2025
Refined and vibrant, showing nectarine, citrus peel and a hint of vanilla biscuit. Bright acidity lifts the palate while subtle oak adds gentle creaminess and depth. Elegant, balanced and quietly persistent.
Click HERE to shop.
Estate experiences
Italian Cheese and Wine Pairing
Join us for an artisanal Italian cheese tasting, thoughtfully paired with four exceptional wines. Enjoy the fresh elegance of Terra del Capo Pinot Grigio, alongside the vibrant character of Terra del Capo Sangiovese. The line-up continues with the aromatic Terra del Capo Arné, and concludes with the rich, indulgent L’Ormarins Cape Vintage Reserve. A relaxed and flavourful journey through Italian-inspired pairings.
Click HERE to book.
Zesty Whites
Featuring Protea Pinot Grigio, Protea Sauvignon Blanc, and Terra Del Capo Pinot Grigio. A vibrant selection of crisp, refreshing wines with bright citrus notes and lively acidity, perfect for easy sipping or pairing with light, flavourful dishes.
Click HERE to book.
Upcoming events
The Bubbly Festival
25 - 26 April 2026 | Anura Vineyards, Stellenbosch
Sip your way through Cap Classique, Champagne, Prosecco, and other sparkling wines across 20+ bubbly stands.
Enjoy a selection of gourmet food stalls, live music, and the beautiful Winelands setting, the perfect way to spend a weekend celebrating all things sparkling. Be sure to visit the L’Ormarins stand while you’re there and enjoy a glass of your favourite Cap Classique.
Click HERE to book.
Stoep Tasting
28 - 30 May 2026 | Graaff Reinet
The annual Stoep Tasting Wine Weekend is one of the premier wine tourism weekends in Africa. It incorporates the towns of Graaff Reinet and Nieu Bethesda, and wine tasters and buyers travel from across Southern Africa to stroll the streets of these two picturesque Karoo towns.
Click HERE to book.