Saxenburg farm is over 200 hectares, with some 90 hectares planted to vineyards. The largest plantings are denoted to Shiraz, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Pinotage. The balance is made up of Chardonnay, Viognier, Cabernet Franc and Malbac, respectively.

The Wine-Grower & Cellar-Master

Nico van der Merwe has been the Winegrower and Cellarmaster of Saxenburg since 1990. He believes in the unique harmony between these two departments which is reflected in the exceptional quality of our wines.

Nico is the only South African winemaker to be responsible for two vintages a year. Since 1996 to 2004 he managed one harvest in South Africa in February – March and one in September – December at Saxenburg’s sister property, 16th century Château Capion, in the South of France. Operating on two continents, gathering invaluable experience of different "terroir" and working with different cultivars, has enabled Nico to increase the overall finish of the Saxenburg wines.

Exceptionally talented, hard working and ever modest, Nico has wowed wine critics and consumers with a meticulous and innovative range of wines. His many accolades include South African Winemaker of The Year.