The Frater Family arrived in South Africa from the lowlands of Scotland in 1878. Having arrived too late for the Gold and Diamond rushes, they settled on De Zoete Inval Estate in the Paarl Valley.
The farm was originally granted by Simon van der Stel (Governor of the Cape) to Hercule des Pres (Hercule of the Meadows), making it one of the historic treasures of South Africa. The Fraters purchased the farm for its good quality ‘’soft’’ water, which was perfectly suited to the washing of wool. As time passed they pioneered into successful fruit farming, and 115 years ago built the original wine cellar, which is still in use today.
Our Story
Mayor of Paarl 1947-1949
Mr G. Frater “Oupa Bull”
AWARDS
crafts people
Bruno Rossi
Founder & Owner
Fillipe Moratti
Executive Director
Agatha Rossi
Senior Winemaker
Ella Campo
Viticulture Manager
Milestones
1967
The Beginning
Bruno Rossi leased five acres of his father and started with just an acre of vines.
1968
Building the Winery
The winery produces first vintage.
late 70-ies
New Sorts in the Vineyard
Bruno Rossi leased five acres of his father and started with just an acre of vines.
1979
First Art Events
Our Wine Club was established to educate consumers in wine & food matching.
80-ies
New Sorts in Vineyards
Bruno Rossi leased five acres of his father and started with just an acre of vines.
1979
First Art Events
Our Wine Club was established to educate consumers in wine & food matching.
sustainability
As part of the agricultural industry, we fully depend on our surrounding, just as it depends on us. That’s why we grow our produce organically and sustainably. Over the past decades the carbon footprint of the winery has been positive, which is something we’re really proud of.
As part of the agricultural industry, we fully depend on our surrounding, just as it depends on us. That’s why we grow our produce organically and sustainably. Over the past decades the carbon footprint of the winery has been positive, which is something we’re really proud of.