The Beyers Truter Legacy at Beyerskloof
Beyers Truter did something unusual in the wine world. He built an entire farm around a single grape variety. While most estates spread their bets across Cabernet, Merlot, Shiraz and whatever else the market wants, Truter went all in on Pinotage. South Africa's only truly original grape. And he made it work so well that Beyerskloof is now inseparable from the variety itself.
The estate sits off the R304 just north of Stellenbosch, about 40 minutes from Cape Town. It is not trying to be a luxury destination or a day trip with spas and garden tours. It is a wine farm that takes its grape seriously and makes really good wine at fair prices. That simplicity is what makes it special.
Wines to Taste at Beyerskloof
The Diesel Pinotage is the headliner and has been for years. It is big, rich and unapologetically Pinotage. Named after the old tractor that still sits on the property, it has become one of the most recognisable Pinotage labels in the world.
| Wine | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel Pinotage | Red | The iconic flagship |
| Faith | Red Blend | Bordeaux style with Pinotage |
| Synergy Reserve | Red Blend | Complex, rewards patience |
| Pinotage Rose | Rose | Best value rose in the country |
| Beyerskloof Pinotage | Red | Reliable everyday wine |
| Cape Blend | Red Blend | Pinotage led blend |
The Faith is a Bordeaux style blend with Pinotage worked in, and it is excellent. It shows that Pinotage can play well with other varieties when you know what you are doing. The Synergy Reserve takes this idea further with a more complex blend that rewards patience. At the entry level, the Beyerskloof Pinotage Rose is one of the best value roses in the country.
Red Leaf Restaurant at Beyerskloof
The Red Leaf restaurant on the property pairs wine with classic Cape food and does it well. The Pinotage burger with a glass of Synergy Reserve is a combination that keeps people coming back. The menu is honest, unpretentious food designed to go with the wines rather than distract from them.
The setting is relaxed with views over the vineyards and a vibe that encourages long lunches. It is popular with locals which is always a good sign. Book ahead for weekend lunches.