Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Simonsberg-Paarl in South Africa’s Western Cape lies our home, Glen Carlou. For years, our vineyards have flourished on these storied slopes, nurtured by a rich terroir unique to this region.
Our estate, surrounded by views of delicate fynbos and mountain crags, has become a premier destination for wine, cuisine, and art. Since 1988, we have garnered a reputation as specialists in Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon and were among the first producers of Chardonnay in the Cape.
On 145 hectares of pristine land, our flagship wines, the Quartz Stone Chardonnay and Gravel Quarry Cabernet Sauvignon, find their perfect expression, born from old vines rooted in ancient soils. The revered Grand Classique stands alongside them, a 33-year-old South African Bordeaux-style blend of noble grape varieties. Over three decades, our wines have graced tables worldwide.
Guiding us is Cellarmaster Johnnie Calitz. With over two decades of experience in Simonsberg-Paarl, he imbues each vintage with a profound understanding of our land and philosophy. For ten years, his knowledge and dedication have shaped our wines to the exceptional standard we proudly uphold today. With an eye for detail and a passion for the craft, he ensures that every bottle bearing our name is celebrated for its distinction, continuously pushing the boundaries to create even finer wines year after year.
We honour our history by drawing inspiration from the legacy left by those before us.
Our esteemed terroir is perched on the northern slopes of the magnificent Simonsberg Mountain, just outside the quaint town of Paarl and near Stellenbosch.
At this site, our vines bask under the African sun, their roots delving deep into rich, ancient soil, imparting our wines with a distinct sense of place. Each bottle we craft is an authentic reflection of our land and the legacy of our estate. Our Cabernet Sauvignon flourishes in our free-draining soils, exhibiting remarkable structure and purity of fruit, while our Chardonnay gains a crisp freshness and unmatched depth from granite and quartz. For decades, we’ve dedicated ourselves to mastering the art of winemaking. This dedication to excellence combined with our unique terrain allows our wines to stand proudly among the world’s finest.
Johnnie Calitz has been the heart of Glen Carlou for nearly a decade. Drawing from over two decades of experience in the Simonsberg-Paarl region, he has become a master of our reputed terroir.
With a vast knowledge of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay cultivation, his passion for wine permeates every aspect of his work. He tends to each vine with the utmost care and respect, always ensuring that each harvest is better than the last. His expertise is matched only by his enthusiasm. Whether he’s sharing the story behind our wines or leading a wine-tasting experience, his love for the craft is evident and leaves a lasting impression on all who meet him. During his time with us, he has dedicated himself to our philosophy, pushing boundaries and exceeding expectations to create premium vintages of lasting significance.
Our commitment extends to social responsibility, prioritising the well-being and safety of our workers. Guided by the Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) scheme, we optimise water usage, manage and recycle wastewater, and use eco-friendly materials. Early morning grape harvesting reduces energy consumption, while minimal sulphur additions ensure our wines are pure and environmentally considerate.
In our vineyards, advanced soil management and water conservation are essential. Soil probes monitor moisture levels, enhancing vine health and reducing water use. We also harness solar energy to power our winery, further lowering our carbon footprint. As members of the Wine Industry Ethical Trade Association (WIETA), we promote fair labour practices and safe working conditions for our employees, earning an A+ rating for our sustainability efforts.