More than just a typical 'organic vine to organic wine' experience, these hour long, guided walks unearths this biodynamic bastion's way of life on the crest of the Schapenberg, where it works in harmony with nature to produce its pure, untamed wines of vitality.
"The concept of biodynamic and organic farming can be daunting, but with these edu-eco-walks, we show visitors how it is really done and explain the philosophy behind it all, whilst sharing with them our slice of precious Cape Floral Kingdom. Disconnected from their devices, they learn how working with nature allows one to experience its natural cycle each year. Our walks are inspired by this ongoing cycle that exists at Waterkloof," explains Christiaan Loots, Waterkloof's own green guru who personally conducts these walkabouts with zeal.
A 'green celebrity' in his own right, Christiaan, is the driving force behind Waterkloof's cutting edge biodynamic endeavours and environmentally responsible farming methods. It took him and his green brigade ten years to transform the once depleted, conventionally farmed land, covered in alien tree species, infected vines and eroded roads, into the healthy, sustainable life-force it is today.
Waterkloof has a whole zoo working its vines and its green team includes Percheron horses that are used in place of tractors to plough, compost, spray and harvest. Cattle provide manure for biodynamic preparations and compost. Sheep graze in the vineyards, eating weeds and enriching the soil with nitrogen and potassium from their manure. And hens roam freely among the vines, eating vine weevils and laying fresh eggs for use in the estate's restaurant.
"On our Circle of Life Walks you will admire peacock beauty and the brute force of our sturdy stallions; get the scoop on our biodynamic preparations; stick your hands in our earthworm farm, get the dirt on how we produce our own 100% natural fertiliser and much more. Not to mention the clean air, scenic splendour and awesome views of False Bay in the distance," adds Christiaan.
The enlightening walks are ideal for permaculture 'passionistas' and gardening clubs wanting to learn some green tips; wine enthusiasts who actually want to know where the bottle on the shelf comes from, or for families and friends in search of unadulterated, bucolic bliss.
The Waterkloof Circle of Life Biodynamic Walks will be on offer until the end of April 2016 and cost R100 per person. Pre-bookings are essential and a maximum of 12 guests per walk is allowed. It starts at 10am and remember the sunscreen, a hat and comfortable walking shoes!
Or why not extend your Winelands walking experience and treat yourself to a relaxed wine tasting and Waterkloof Platter after a morning spent amidst fynbos and vines at R250 per person.
Friday, 25 September
Friday, 30 October
Friday, 27 November
Friday, 18 December
Friday, 29 January
Friday, 26 February
Friday, 25 March
Friday, 29 April
For more information on these walks or pre-bookings contact Waterkloof Estate at 021 858 1292, email az.oc.seniwfoolkretaw@irdnaz or visit www.waterkloofwines.co.za.
