Rietrivier Winery

Today, about 70 producers supply grapes for the production of the wines, the furthest 60km apart. The vineyards are situated 400m to 700m above sea level, the Koo region being the highest and coldest with snow in the winter. Due to the hilly and sometimes mountainous terroir, viticulturists choose from a wide range of slopes when considering the best location for specific cultivars. A variety of meso climates can be identified ranging from secluded areas high up in the mountains to the lower riverbeds in the valleys. The daily winds in the afternoon ensures good air circulation, prevents relative high humidity and excessively high temperatures from developing in vine canopies.

This contributes to the optimal environment for physiological ripening of grapes and for the synthesis of colour, flavour and aroma compounds. This diversity of climate, topography and terroir ensure that the cellar can choose from a vast array of grape styles and quality to make the wines for ultimate enjoyment.