| Nestled at the base of the majestic Simonsberg Mountain range in the Western Cape is the fertile Franschhoek Wine Valley where spectacular vineyards cover the mountain slopes that were settled more than 300 years ago by the French Hugenots. The valley is rich, lush farmland perfect for growing grapes used to produce the highest quality wines found in South Africa.
Franschhoek, (the picturesque village just 45 minutes from Cape Town) is home to the Vrede en Lust Winery, a family owned and managed wine estate. Vrede en Lust has a 300 year old history. It was first established by Jacques de Savoye in 1688 as a wine farm and even centuries ago it was described as “the most beautiful place”.
Vrede en Lust is a family oriented wine farm and the families all contribute in some way to the richness found in this wine estate. The winery welcomes its guests with free wine tasting in a comfortable, serene setting and also offers wine tours where guests can experience the wine making process and come in close contact with the grapes. The winemaker at the lovely Vrede en Lust wine estate is Susan Erasmus, winner of the 2007 Landbou Woman Winemaker of the Year award. Susan’s passion is wine and it is evident in the award winning range of wines produced at Vrede en Lust. Susan Erasmus was born in Cape Town and raised in the Free State, a province of South Africa. She is a graduate of the University of Stellenbosch in Viticulture and Oenology and also spent time abroad in France working in the wine industry. Susan returned to the winelands in 2000 and has worked in collaboration with the owners, Dana and Etienne Buyers, to renew the Vrede en Lust winery and make it the flourishing success it is today. The winemaking philosophy at Vrede en Lust is to produce the highest quality handcrafted wines that reflect their terroir with minimal intervention in the cellar. The wines are produced in New World Style, some classical and some of a more modern taste. The vineyards are planted where they are best suited to their respective soils. White grapes come from the cool climate Elgin region and red grapes come from the warmer Simonsberg-Paarl vineyards.
The Vrede en Lust Wine Estate with its peaceful and welcoming atmosphere has much to offer in addition to its stellar winery and vineyards. Cotage Fromage is a restaurant which serves a light, sophisticated breakfast or lunch with live music on Sunday afternoons. There is a deli where you can find 60 different cheeses and a variety of meats and freshly baked breads. The Manor House and Jonkmanshuis offers elegant accommodations to guests of Vrede en Lust boasting old world charm in a modern, bright airy setting. Lavish weddings are also held at Vrede en Lust with its breathtaking scenery as the backdrop.
We are lucky to have a wide range of Vrede en Lust wine in our store. For any inquiries, mail us at info@cape-ardor.com
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