Bakenhof (managed by WECM) is one of the top table grape and wine farms in the region, measuring 155 hectares. The estate lies on a hill, approximately 5 km from the picturesque town of Wellington in the Cape winelands. The elevated position affords breathtaking 360 degree views: to the South West the majestic Table Mountain, the Hawequa Mountains with the Bainskloof pass to the East, to the North East Perdeberg and the Franschhoek mountains to the South. Privately owned for the past four decades, this farm follows the highest standard of operation. The latest technology is employed and the sophisticated infrastructure includes a complicated computerized irrigation systems and a state of the art packing and cooling facility.

Bakenhof Manor”

Built in 1985, the Manor House follows local architecture and has recently been upgraded. It now serves as a luxurious guesthouse comprising of 4 double ensuite bedrooms as well as a honeymoon suite. It features a lush garden with sparkling pool, a conference facility for up to 20 people, several lounges, kitchen and 4 garages. A further 9 small cottages, in excellent condition, are conveniently

situated on the border of the estate and serve as permanent staff accommodation. A further Manager’s House is positioned next to the guard house at the automated entrance gate.

The Vineyards

The Estate comprises of 155 hectares, of which currently 90 hectare are planted with Table Grapes of 5 different cultivars. Further 10 hectare vineyards are divided into Chardonnay and Shiraz and are currently being established. The soils consist of Table Mountain sandstone in nature, with Clovelly and Hutton types prevalent, while closer to the Berg River alluvial soils are found. The vineyards benefit from the position on a slope running from east to west. The table grape vineyards range from 2 to approximately 30 years in age and are all watered with a computerized irrigation system. The total harvest for 2007 is expected to be

+/- 1350 tons - 80% of the harvest has export quality and is exported to the UK, Netherlands, Germany and some other markets in Europe. Water is supplied by pumps from the Berg River; the Estate is in the fortunate position to own water rights for 120 hectare - plus the ability to store winter water in the two dams, included in the expansion program. The vineyards planted with Chardonnay and Shiraz are young in age and were established as part of a new strategy to maximize on the excellent climate and soil. Wine production will be included in future, which will result in a diversified income. The expected harvest from these vineyards for 2008 is 80 tons. The 2008 expansion plan includes the acquisition of a share in one of the best known Co-Operatives in the region. This will guarantee a distribution channel for the harvest and enable the ability to produce an exclusive wine label. The amount of unutilized land which is ready for development offers enormous opportunities. A further 40 hectares of arable land is perfectly suitable for new vineyards and olive groves. The remaining land will be used to provide a balanced and scenic resort type of environment.

For more information please see www.bakenhof.co.za

Bakenhof Manor

African suite at Bakenhof Manor