OUR WINES
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WINE SHOP
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WINE TASTING
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FARM STORIES
Browse through our articles to learn more about our award-winning wines, winemaking styles, and our vineyard practises.
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.
Humble beginnings
1694
In 1694 Frederick Botha planted his first vines and the construction of the house began that same year.
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.
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!).
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.
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.
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!