Spier. A name whispered on the wind, carried on the scent of ripe grapes and ancient oaks. Here, at Spier Wine Farm, time dances between centuries, each era leaving its indelible mark. Spier isn’t just a wine farm. It’s a living tapestry woven with threads of art, history, and nature’s bounty. Spier boasts a recorded history stretching back to 1692. It stands as one of South Africa’s oldest wine farms, a testament to centuries of winemaking tradition. Yet, Spier pulsates with a contemporary energy. It houses one of the largest collections of contemporary South African art, a vibrant counterpoint to its historic roots.
The story of Spier began long before its name graced a title deed. Seven thousand years ago, the San people, hunter-gatherers, called this land home. Their presence echoes in the very soil we stand on. Later, the Khoikhoi people grazed their livestock here, their kraals dotting the banks of the Eerste River. In 1692, Governor Simon van der Stel formalized Spier’s place in history, granting the land to Arnoud Jansz.
Wander through Spier, and you’ll encounter the ghosts of these past inhabitants. Majestic oaks, planted on Van der Stel’s advice, still grace the farm. The grand oak at the heart of the werf stands as a silent witness to centuries of change. It is joined by indigenous species like the Cape Willow and Wild Peach, whispers of the land’s original flora. Look closely, and you’ll find 21 Cape Dutch gables, more than any other wine estate in South Africa. These architectural gems span half a century of styles, a tangible link to the farm’s colonial past. One of the gables belongs to the wine cellar, a sturdy structure dating back to 1767, built by then-owner Albertus Myburgh.
Spier isn’t just a place of history. It’s a place of vibrant life. Breathe in the aroma of fermenting grapes. Sample Spier’s award-winning wines. The Tasting Room, airy and inviting, offers a diverse selection. Admire the iconic Heath Nash chandelier, a shimmering sculpture crafted from 334 recycled Spier wine bottles. Indulge in a wine and chocolate pairing, where carefully crafted chocolates enhance the nuanced flavors of Spier’s liquid treasures. Or, savor the Winemaker Selection, a journey through Spier’s premium ranges. Even the youngest visitors can partake in the experience with a Children’s Grape Juice Tasting.
Spier also nourishes the body with delicious food. Ingredients are sourced from the farm itself or from trusted nearby farmers, ensuring freshness and quality. From hearty burgers to traditional farm specialties, the restaurant at Spier tantalizes the taste buds.
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the vineyards, remember this. Spier is more than just a wine farm. It is a story etched in the land, a testament to South Africa’s rich heritage and vibrant future.