Longridge - 100% Organic Wines

To truly appreciate the current 12°C on the 12th of June and the seemingly endless rain, merely drinking healthy amounts of wine might not suffice. (As grateful as we are for this precious resource)

For those who wish to make the most of dull weather and challenging life circumstances, the environmentally friendly wines from Longridge are an excellent choice.

Located on the R44 between Somerset West and Stellenbosch, this winery, led by Jasper Raats (brother of Bruwer Raats), stands as a pioneer of biodynamic viticulture in the area.

Jasper decided back in 2011 to eliminate chemicals from his vineyard and pursue a more natural path. This transition came with its own challenges, yet through patience, a natural balance emerged that can almost be felt physically. What once felt artificial now regulates itself, and what had been lost in the local wildlife became a safe haven.

Pests and diseases that require chemical treatments elsewhere encounter resilient vines with a robust immune system. Beneficial organisms are strategically introduced, like specific fungal spores that combat harmful fungi or insects that prey on destructive caterpillars. A troop of guinea fowl assists in controlling snails, along with owls and other raptors managing the mouse population.

Jasper is immensely pleased with his decision — one that many neighbors considered madness. He cannot envision practicing agriculture any other way than through this holistic perspective, where every component of the ecosystem fertilizes and supports each other. The very foundation for all further development is the land that requires healing after centuries of conventional farming practices. Once rejuvenated, both the vines and the native wildlife, particularly the microscopic life in the soil, will flourish again. This rejuvenation also extends to the workers on the vineyard. Like the plants, they too can only realize their potential when they are cared for, educated properly, treated with respect, and valued as equals within the team.

The first member of this committed team you are likely to encounter during a visit is Audrey, the head of the Tasting Center. She is not only knowledgeable about wine but also incredibly fun to talk to.

Those wanting to have a genuine experience should come by and ideally pair their visit with a meal at the on-site Restaurant Rykaarts. Enjoy outstanding cuisine crafted from produce sourced from Longridge and neighboring farms, accompanied by a glass or two (or three!) of Jasper's wines – and your day is sure to be bright!

Now, enough of the praises for this week! Here’s a brief update on the political developments in the Cape. We already mentioned the election results last week.

Instead of forming a coalition with one of the opposition parties and making a clear directional decision for the nation, significant factions within the party are pursuing what they call a “GNU” Government of National Unity, involving several opposition parties with varied objectives. While both the DA and the IFP are amenable to this under certain conditions, the EFF and the new Zuma party MK entirely reject such a government as racist and as further entrenching the disenfranchisement of the black majority. Regrettably, there’s also a faction within the ANC that shares similar views. No decisions have been made as of today, leaving every option on the table. From potential stabilization in multiple sectors to complete economic collapse, including the expropriation of white farmers without compensation. With the immense time constraints imposed by the constitution, we are sure to have updates by next week. We’ll keep a close watch …