History - Ken Forrester Wines

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where it all started

1689

Scholtzenhof, one of the very oldest wine farms in the Cape, was originally granted as Zandberg in 1689. Just ten years after Stellenbosch was founded, the original land, 64 morgen, was granted by Governor Simon van der Stel to Frederick Boot, from Gotha (near Wagenheim in Germany), who later changed his name to Botha.

2021

1694

humble beginnings

1694

In 1694 Frederick Botha planted his first vines and the construction of the house began that same year.

1689

1833

stable growth & hard times

1833

In 1833 another German family by the name of Scholtz took residence here, they changed the name to Scholtzenhof, and grew vines and farmed happily here for almost 100 years, then a succession of owners took up residence and the property fell on hard times in the early 1990's prior to the release of Mandela and the first democratic elections.

1694

1993

we moved in

1993

In 1993 with a young family, Ken and his wife Teresa set their hearts on an historic vineyard in Stellenbosch. This beautiful farm and homestead had stood vacant and derelict when they bought it on a public auction in 1993. A massive renovation was undertaken, both in the vineyards (Ken) and the house (Teresa!).

1833

1994

new beginnings

1994

In 1994 the first wines were produced under the Ken Forrester label, and soon the wines were at the forefront of the Chenin Blanc revival. The grapes were sourced from vineyards on the property – some of them planted as far back as 1970.

1993

2019

we picked up a few awards

2019

In 2019, Ken Forrester Vineyards celebrated 25 years of wine life in Stellenbosch. This special occasion was celebrated in a series of themed tastings hosted by Ken and his family all around SA and abroad. Ken Forrester vineyards is testimony to hard work, passion and creativity and we look forward to the next 25 fun years.

1994

2021

where we are now

2021

With the economy recovering and the festive season around the corner, we end 2021 on a good note. Here is to many more to come!

2019

1689

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