Ridgeback Wines from Paarl
Ridgeback Wines is located in the northern part of Paarl near Windmeul, on the northern side of Paarl Mountain. The farm covers around 65 hectares, of which approximately 35 hectares are currently planted with vines. The location combines long, warm days with cooler evenings and varied soil formations. Areas of proteas and natural fynbos vegetation are also preserved around the vineyards.
The estate's modern history began in 1997, when the former fruit farm was acquired and gradually converted to vineyards. The first white wine was produced in 2000. Just one year later came the first Ridgeback Shiraz, which was later awarded five stars in Platter's Wine Guide. In 2003, a modern winery was built and complemented by a tasting area beside the estate's small lake.
The name Ridgeback refers to the Rhodesian Ridgeback, a dog breed that originated in southern Africa. The dogs were kept on the farm and became the symbol of the brand. Their strong and enduring character is reflected particularly in the focus on structured red wines, which make up an important part of the range.
The vineyards are planted with an unusually broad selection of grape varieties. Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Mourvèdre, Grenache and Petit Verdot play an important role among the reds. White varieties include Chenin Blanc and Viognier. Depending on the parcel, the soils include Oakleaf, Clovelly and Glenrosa as well as weathered granite formations. Viognier, for example, grows on east- and north-east-facing slopes with Oakleaf and Clovelly soils, while some Shiraz is planted on Glenrosa and Oakleaf soils.
Cabernet Franc is now one of the estate's most distinctive wines. Ridgeback Cabernet Franc combines blackcurrant, spicy notes and firm, ripe tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz also show the more powerful Paarl style, with dark fruit, herbs, pepper and extended maturation in French oak. The wines are predominantly designated Wine of Origin Paarl.
Viognier has a distinctive role of its own. The grapes are harvested at night to preserve freshness and aroma, then partly fermented and matured in larger French oak barrels. The wine combines floral notes, white and yellow fruit and citrus aromas with a creamy texture. Chenin Blanc complements the white wine range with ripe fruit and fresh acidity.
At the top of the range are blends such as Signature C, Signature S and The Journey. Signature C is based on classic Bordeaux varieties, while Signature S is led by Shiraz and may be complemented by Mourvèdre and Grenache. Since 2025, Renier van Deventer, the new Cellar Master, has been responsible for the continued development of the winemaking. At Vin Africa you will find characterful Ridgeback wines from Paarl, shaped by ripe fruit, structure and the warm location at Paarl Mountain.