Estate History
Dating back over 43 years, Vriesenhof Stellenbosch sits proudly in the Paradyskloof Valley. A traditional wine farm – showcased through the style of the property and its buildings, down to to Jan Coetzee himself, the original owner and first winemaker.
1682
The Coetzee Family acquired their first land in Paradyskloof, Stellenbosch by 1682, growing across the Jonkershoek Valley.
1705
The farm dates back to 1705 as a fruit and vegetable farm with a small selection of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cinsault vines.
1963
Near the end of the 1680’s the Coetzee’s left Stellenbosch for rugged west coast shores. However, in 1963 Jan returned to Stellenbosch to study and further his career in wine.
1980
In 1980, Jan ‘Boland’ Coetzee purchased Vriesenhof and it became his canvas, with intentions to produce Cabernet and Bordeaux blend.
1981
In 1981 Vriesenhof bottled its first wine. The first three vintages released were all 100% Cabernet Sauvignon – all made from the original farm vines planted in 1973.
1982
In 1982, Chardonnay was planted (which was technically smuggled into SA by our Pioneer – Jan ‘Boland’ Coetzee) to create a world class Chardonnay that tells a Stellenbosch story - in partnership with Danie de Wet.
1987
Vriesenhof joined with Talana Hill to form and expanded with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and later Pinot Noir and Grenache.
2007
Nicky Classens joined the team from 2007, and together with Jan, they perfected the art of an elegant Chardonnay and explored the haunting beauty of a flawless pinot Noir.
2010
In 2010, the well-travelled and highly esteemed Adam Mason joined as winemaking consultant, responsible for the more recent vintages you taste today