Their commitment to the Biodiversity and Wine Initiative, which aims to minimise the loss of threatened natural habitat and to contribute to sustainable wine production, rings true.  For the Viljoens this means actively incorporating sound natural resource management practices on literally every level of their interaction with nature.

A long-term action plan for the management of alien vegetation – mostly Port Jacksons, Wild Tobacco trees and Blue Gums – directs and prioritises their alien clearing efforts.  A continuous bird survey has produced a specie list of 50 birds, while plant, fish and animal surveys are also on the cards for the near future.  Their conservation aims further include a concerted effort to saving water, wastewater management, recycling and the curbed use of chemicals.  “We do not favour using chemicals, but when we have to we only use those accepted by the South African wine industry,” says Fred. The adjacent Renosterveld also forms part of their 50 ha conservation area and creates an excellent buffer zone between the indigenous river habitat and their agricultural activities.

They have also embraced the environmentally friendly Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) scheme whereby Fred and Manie undertake to grow grapes and make wine in an as environmentally friendly manner as possible.  The IPW scheme is unique in that it is inclusive of all facets, from the preparation of the soil, through all production processes.