Soil. Life-giving, ancient, site specific and highly variable are just some descriptors one can use when describing soil. Our unique soils at De Toren are arguably our most important resource in producing quality grapes for the production of our site specific wines.

The coastal regions of South Africa possess some of the oldest soils in the world. The research from University of Stellenbosch has shown that the De Toren farm is ideal for the production of luxurious red wines. This area gives a unique expression of the 5 Bordeaux varietals, not to be found elsewhere in the Cape.

Our 25 ha farm has over 15 different soil types, each with particular characteristics and life-giving qualities. These characteristics and qualities translate into their individual suitability for hosting the five noble Bordeaux varietals.

Soils are made up of layers and each layer consists of differing ratios of soil, organic matter, inorganic matter, water and air. Clay, sand and other minerals make up some of the most important components of the inorganic fraction in soil originating from weathered rock and parent material.

The predominantly decomposed granite layer on top of a solid clay base is the ideal component for growing great red wine grapes, especially when your vineyard has a view of the ocean. A balance of good growing conditions and stress is required for the vine to grow comfortably until ripening must begin. Detailed soil matching to root stocks and varietals, coupled with unique climatic conditions enables us to produce superior quality grapes showing the place they have been grown.

At De Toren we found 15 different soil types to which we matched 11 different root stocks and the five noble varietals. This is the start of building complexity of the vineyard into the wine. To add to this, we selected 25 different clones to graft over the 5 varietals. We designed these vineyards to the wine and are therefore committed to produce the very best designer Bordeaux styled blends in the country.

 

This is how we achieve greatness in producing our De Toren Z and De Toren Fusion V.