Our Farming Practices
Our steadfast commitment to conservation is exemplified through our dedicated focus on regenerative farming practices, ensuring a harmonious balance between vineyard health, environmental stewardship, and exceptional wine production.
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Viticulturist
David van Schalkwyk
David van Schalkwyk has been nurturing the vines at Waterford Estate since 2013, playing a vital role in the estate's commitment to regenerative farming. With his passion for nature and innovative approach to vineyard management, David has led initiatives to enhance soil health and restore the land for future generations. His dedication to regenerative farming - going beyond sustainability - ensures that Waterford’s vineyards not only thrive but continue to improve, producing world-class wines that reflect the estate’s unique terroir.
As David puts it, “Regenerative farming isn’t just about sustaining what we have; it’s about improving the soil and bringing life back. Without healthy ecosystems, our vines cannot reach their full potential.”
Our Vineyard Team
From the loam-like granitic-based soils to the rich red clay, David and his team work in harmony with the land, honouring it and encouraging our vines to produce the highest quality for the cellar team. “We don’t farm with grapes, we farm with the roots and the soil,” says David, who is a master at understanding the diverse soil types across Waterford Estate.
David works with a loyal team, including families who have lived and worked on the estate since 1997. Their generational knowledge and dedication form the backbone of Waterford’s success.
Simon Terblanche, our assistant viticulturist, plays a key role in supporting David and the team. His expertise ensures our vines are well cared for, contributing to the sustainability and quality that produce our world-class wines.
The people who bring our vineyard and cellar to life...
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A commitment to conservation
Spanning 120 hectares, Waterford Estate dedicates 50 hectares to vineyards, with the remaining 70 hectares preserved for natural fauna and flora on the Helderberg. Our estate employs various techniques and systems to preserve the environment and optimise resource use.
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Discover the rich biodiversity
of our estate
At our estate, nature thrives in perfect balance. We celebrate the diverse flora and fauna that enrich our landscape.
A showcase of local flora
Waterford Estate is located in the heart of the Cape Floristic Region, which is a globally renowned biodiversity hotspot home to more than 9000 plant species of which more than 6000 are endemic to the region. Outside of the tropics, this is the greatest concentration of plant species in the world. To put this into perspective, Table Mountain in Cape Town supports more plant species than the entire United Kingdom.
Wildlife Presence
The estate's diverse flora supports a rich array of wildlife, including mammals like the Cape Grysbok and Southern Rock Agama, as well as various bird species, such as the endemic Cape Sugarbird and the vibrant Orange-breasted Sunbird. These birds thrive in the fynbos environment, playing crucial roles in pollination and the ecosystem's overall health. The presence of such wildlife highlights the ecological importance of our estate, where the balance of flora and fauna coexists harmoniously.
Birdwatching Haven
At the farm, you’ll find a fascinating array of feathered friends, each playing a vital role in the estate's ecosystem. From the nectar-sipping Cape Sugarbird to the majestic Blue Crane, South Africa's national bird, Waterford Estate provides a sanctuary for these incredible creatures.
Beehive conservation
We support environmental stewardship by placing beehives across the estate, aiding the Stellenbosch bee population. While our vineyards are self-pollinating, the bees sustain surrounding fynbos and indigenous plants.
Barrel Room innovation
The Barrel Room, known as The Cathedral, is a unique feature of our estate that not only provides a remarkable maturation space for our wines but also significantly contributes to our sustainability efforts. It houses over 1,400 French oak barrels, with each row exposing the earth below, regulating optimal temperature and humidity year-round. Its innovative design utilises natural materials and minimises energy consumption, aligning perfectly with our commitment to reducing our environmental impact.
Explore our
sustainability journey
Discover how our farming practices contribute to a sustainable future for generations to come.
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