Legendary Wines
Legendary Klein Karoo wines...
The Doornkraal farm lies at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains in the Klein Karoo. It is known to the locals as Kannaland (named after the family of succulents whose dream-inducing properties, like those of Sceletium, are legendary). This rugged yet beautiful region is ideal for ostrich farming but poses a challenge for winemakers who depend on irrigation for their vineyards. Similarities in climate (if not in soil) to Portugal’s Douro Valley have inspired some winemakers to dedicate their talents to “port” and fortified dessert wines. As a result, the Klein Karoo region has become renowned for its fortified dessert wines of international standard.
The Le Roux family has been farming and producing wine and brandy at Domaine Doornkraal for several generations. When the farm was first established, a small vineyard was immediately planted among the vast expanses of thorn trees that characterize the area.
Today, several hectares of vineyards produce white wines, including two varieties of Chenin Blanc, and among the red cultivars are Merlot and a range of dessert wines, along with a sparkling wine called Tinkled Pink.
Piet le Roux is the third-generation winemaker at Domaine Doornkraal, son of owner Gerrit (Swepie) le Roux. Together with a team of experts, they offer a wide variety of wines. Doornkraal’s core philosophy is that God gave wine to humankind to enjoy and to enrich life which is why they produce wines that are easy to drink and quintessentially Klein Karoo made to be enjoyed alongside the region’s climate, scenery, and cuisine.
Doornkraal Kannaland Merlot 2021
Sauve and smooth 100% Merlot, unwooded.
Tickled Pink
Sparkling Wine
This wine is great with spicy dishes, good company and bad girls. Sparkling wine made with Muscat grapes. Off Dry to Semi Sweet.
Doornkraal Kannaland Chenin Blanc 2023
Highly enjoyable dry white wine with hints of guava and other Klein Karoo fruit and flowers.
Kaptein
Reminiscent of sweet almonds by the fireside. Made years ago to be enjoyed as a dessert wine, paired with spiced biscuits, among others. Named after a little stallion who was lazy under saddle but full of fire and passion among the mares. A light cloud of tartaric crystals may form in the bottle over time we chose not to strip the wine of its natural flavor.
Luitenant
This less sweet dessert wine was named for the brave young soldiers who trained as officers at the Infantry School, for many years. This astute wine serves to fortify and improve the mood. A harmless sediment of tartrate crystals may eventually settle in the bottle.
Jerepigo
In winter, it’s a perfect alternative to central heating. Pour over crushed ice with a piece of lemon zest and serve. Good with curry & other spicy food. A harmless sediment of tartrate crystals may eventually settle in the bottle.
Pinta
Only hand-picked, sun-ripened grapes from very old vines were used to make this dessert wine. In winter, it is a perfect alternative to central heating. A harmless sediment of tartrate crystals may eventually settle in the bottle.
Majoor
Serve this delightful wine on crushed ice with a sliver of lemon zest and sip slowly. A harmless sediment of tartrate crystals may eventually settle in the bottle.