The first generation Viljoens, or Villion as these French Huguenots were called, planted vines for wine and brandy making way back in 1818. They distilled the then well known Cape Smoke Brandy and produced hanepoot and muscadel sweet wines, using raw brandy for fortification. Many a cold winter’s evening was made more enjoyable by drinking a “sopie” (sip) of this wonder of the earth that was produced with such vigour and enthusiasm.

Five generations after the farm was established in 1863, that ground-breaking spirit remains, while the sense of tradition and passion for the grape runs as strong as ever.

In 1998 Fred and Manie’s dad Ben stepped down and after 30 years of delivering their grapes to the co-op, the brothers bravely opened the cellar door to produce their own wines from the high quality grapes the farm brings forth.