Wines of Wellington, South Africa

Founded in 1989, the Napier winery was integrated into the Reh Kendermann company in 2017. On 25 hectares of vineyards outside of the city of Wellington, in the Western Cape of South Africa, grape varieties are grown that reflect the unique soils and the particularly hot climate in the wine. All work in the vineyards is aimed at promoting the individual characteristics of our grape varieties and creating a good balance in each wine.

History of Napier

Napier is named after Sir George Napier, who was governor of the Cape Colony (Cape of Good Hope) from 1837 to 1843. During his term of office, slavery was abolished, mainly due to his contribution.

Napier has been family-owned since its foundation in 1989. The tradition is continued by Carl Reh, a German wine entrepreneur.

Viticulture

The warm climate and high levels of sunshine in Wellington are perfect for Bordeaux grape varieties. Work in the vineyards is focussed on achieving varietal typicity and perfect balance.

The wines are vinified by Leon Bester, managing director and head winemaker with a degree in oenology from the Elsenburg Agriculture College in Stellenbosch. Leon is South African and is able to contribute the experience he gained in the “old world of viticulture”.

Social responsibility

In 2010, Napier completed 14 modern houses for the 14 families of farm labourers who live on site. Each of the houses has its own garden, a modern bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen and a fireplace. Napier also covers the school and education fees for the farm workers’ children and pays for their transport to and from school.

Awards

Not only have our wines received multiple medals and awards, but Napier itself has also been honoured with a special award. For four consecutive years, the winery has received the medal of the Berlin Wine Trophy “South Africa’s Still Wine Producer of the Year”.

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