Mark Kent and Cap Maritime: Celebrating Premium South African Wines

Marc Kent, the talent behind The Chocolate Block

Wine luminary Marc Kent, owner and winemaker at Boekenhoutskloof, is the mastermind behind Cap Maritime, complementing esteemed brands like The Chocolate Block, Porcupine Ridge, and The Wolftrap. He views the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley as a premium spot for crafting Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in South Africa. At Cap Maritime, Boekenhoutskloof crafts top-tier wines under winemaker Gottfried Mocke, capturing their terroir while embodying the winery’s distinguished style.

Wines from the cool climate Hemel-en-Aarde region

Hemel-en-Aarde, located in the Cape South Coast of South Africa’s Western Cape, is so picturesque that its name invokes poetry. Translating to “Heaven and Earth,” it perfectly encapsulates the stunning landscape where expansive skies meet lush hills and valleys.

About 80 km southeast of Cape Town, Hemel-en-Aarde overlooks Hermanus and the South Atlantic. It ranks among the coolest and southernmost wine regions in South Africa, distinguished by a profound maritime influence and temperate climate, ideal for producing fresh, balanced wines of exceptional quality.

The eight-hectare vineyards of Cap Maritime are situated on a ridge that separates the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Under the guidance of farm manager Petrus Bothma and advisory winemaker Rosa Kruger, the vineyards were established on signature Tafelberg sandstone and decomposed granite soils. The planting process involved the systematic removal of invasive plants and reintroduction of endemic fynbos to mitigate environmental impacts while preserving the natural landscape.

Cap Maritime’s acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir showcase Marc Kent's profound expertise within South Africa’s wine scene and shine as true highlights of the exceptional Hemel-en-Aarde region!