ABOUT US our history Step into Blaauwklippen’s heritage, a journey through time that unites people, place, and wine culture in one continuous story of South Africa. Blaauwklippen’s history begins in 1682, making it one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates and the country’s first registered company in the Cape Winelands, Western Cape. Set at the foot of the Stellenbosch Mountains, the estate has carried its heritage through centuries of winemaking, agriculture, and innovation. Each generation added to the legacy, shaping Blaauwklippen into a cornerstone of South African viticulture.From pioneering Zinfandel vineyards in 1977 to launching the Blending Competition in 1984, milestones continue to define our progress. This timeline shares the journey of an estate that balances tradition with innovation, honouring its role in Stellenbosch and the wider wine world. Download our farm history 1659 The first wine from Cape grapes In 1652, Jan van Riebeeck wrote to the VOC and urged them to send over vines to plant, as the fertile valley under Table Mountain showed much promise for winemaking. The ship Leeuwin cast anchor at Table Bay in July 1655. With them, they had the first vine cuttings packed into some wet earth and sewn up in sailcloth, which the sailors had to keep damp during the journey to the Cape. The vines grew and flourished. Four years later, South Africa’s first harvest took place. On Sunday, 2 February 1659, Jan van Riebeeck noted in his diary: “Today, praise be to God, wine was pressed for the first time from Cape grapes.” 1679 Simon van der Stel & the foundation of Stellenbosch In 1679, Simon van der Stel was appointed as Commander and later the first Governor of the Cape. He set out to explore the region to further develop the Cape colony. Upon camping by the “Eersterivier”, he immediately recognised the value of the fertile valley. Incorporating his name, the town of Stellenbosch was established. Within a year, numerous families settled there and the town began to grow. Today we celebrate its rich history as the second oldest town in South Africa where many prominent leaders, artists, writers and other influential people have called Stellenbosch home. 1682 The beginning of our story Dutchman Gerrit Jansz Visscher arrived at the Cape in 1662. After Stellenbosch was founded, Simon van der Stel allocated land to free burghers, and Gerrit received the land where Blaauwklippen stands today. He married Jannetje Thielemann in the Castle in 1675, at the age of fifteen. Jannetje was Cape-born, recorded as the first union between a free burgher and a local woman. In 1682 the household listed a wife, three children, one horse, fifteen cattle, a sword, and a musket. Records note that Jannetje’s mother was a criminal and was banished to Mauritius in 1677. 1688 First Vines Planted Gerrit Visscher, originally a potter with no farming background, began clearing the dense forests on the estate. Within six years of receiving the land, he successfully planted 1,000 vines. Despite the scale of planting, no actual wine production was recorded at this stage. This marked the foundation of viticulture on the farm, laying the groundwork for future winemaking. 1690 Grant of Ownership On 9 November 1690, Simon van der Stel signed the official Grant of Ownership for the farm, formally transferring it to Gerrit Visscher. Remarkably, on the very same day, Visscher sold the estate to French Huguenot Guillaume Niel (also known as Willem Nel). Today, a framed copy of this historic Grant can be viewed in the Blaauwklippen Tasting Room. 1700 The Farm Receives Its Name The second owner, Guillaume Niel (Willem Nel), is credited with naming the farm “De Blaauwe Klippen.” The name translates to Blue Stones, inspired by the granite found across the land. Exposed rock outcrops on the farm and in the riverbed often appear greyish-brown on the outside, but when broken, they reveal striking blue hues inside. 1707 Old wine cellar One of the oldest buildings on the farm dates back to 1707. It was most likely first used as a barn and was later transformed into a working cellar, indicating a booming wine trade in the Stellenbosch area. This extraordinary building still stands today, reminding us of our Estate’s rich heritage and significant contribution to the South African Wine Industry. 1709 Blaauwklippen’s First Recorded Wine Production One of the farm’s oldest buildings, dating to 1707, was first a barn before becoming a working cellar. Guillaume (Willem) Niel, a French Huguenot and skilled vintner, expanded the vineyard from 1,000 vines to 6,000 by 1709. That year marked a milestone with the farm’s first leaguer of wine (570 litres) officially recorded. 1720 Jonkershuis Becomes a Landmark of the Estate Constructed around 1720, the Jonkershuis stands as one of the oldest surviving buildings at Blaauwklippen. Historic roles of the Jonkershuis: Once believed to form part of the family home. Later repurposed for coach storage with a wide access door. Transformed into a small farm school classroom in the late 1800s. The gable was completed in 1780, and today the Jonkershuis is part of Blaauwklippen’s accommodation offerings. 1770 Giant Oaks Stand the Test of Time Some of Blaauwklippen’s towering oak trees are believed to date back to around 1770. The first oak seeds were brought to the Cape by Jan van Riebeeck in 1652, and planting was heavily promoted. Blaauwklippen’s original 1690 grant required any felled trees to be replaced, preferably with oaks. Twenty thousand trees were sent to Stellenbosch when the town was established in 1679, shaping the iconic oak-lined streets and estates. 1789 The Manor House The Manor House bears the date 1789 on its main gable, but the building was most probably already built two to three decades earlier. Gables were often added to houses several years after the original house was built and often the date of the erection of the gable was inscribed on the gable field. Over the centuries the Manor House evolved into the extraordinary structure we see today. It was home to numerous families and one can imagine the sound of children’s laughter around the yard as you stand under the giant oaks. From old kitchen heaths, ladders leading up to the loft, underground wine cellars by the staff quarters, remnants of an outside bake oven by the Jonkershuis, a fowl run added in the 1800’s and the pieces of broken Delft pottery that appears in the garden every once in a while, the Manor House and Jonkershuis continue to tell the story of one of the oldest farmyards in Stellenbosch. 1818 Farm Enlarged and Second Wine Cellar Built In 1818, the estate expanded with the addition of quitrent land, previously reserved only for grazing. By 1833, further land was added to support growing production needs. Wine and brandy had become central to the farm, leading to the construction of a second wine cellar. Tax returns from 1825 recorded 70,000 vines, 30 leaguers of wine, and half a leaguer of brandy, highlighting Blaauwklippen’s growth into a serious producer. 1827 Millhouse Powers Production By 1827, an overshot watermill was already operating on the Blaauwklippen River, as referenced in Frans Rossouw’s will. The mill’s elevated channel fed water onto the wheel, driving production for the estate. A smaller building across the river is believed to have housed the mill itself. Parts of the original millstone remain today, repurposed in the kitchen stairs of the Manor House. 1850 Jacobus Rossouw’s Achar Recognition Around 1850, Jacobus Rossouw, then owner of Blaauwklippen, won a prize at the local agricultural show for his achar. Historical context suggests the achar was likely prepared by women in the household or staff, as gender roles confined men to land work and women to domestic tasks. The entry was still recorded in Jacobus’s name, reflecting the patriarchal norms of the time 1877 Betty Uys Marks Her Place in History A windowpane in the Manor House bears the scratched words “Betty Uys” and “Bloemhof Sem, Stellenbosch.” “Sem” referred to the ladies’ seminary in Stellenbosch, a common institution for women’s education at the time. Betty, daughter of Jacobus Uys, was only four years old when her father bought Blaauwklippen in 1877. The engraving reflects both a personal family story and a trace of women’s presence in the estate’s history. 1886 Phylloxera Crisis in the Cape In 1886, the phylloxera insect devastated Cape vineyards, destroying about eight million vines and crippling many farms. The outbreak caused widespread bankruptcies and reshaped the local wine industry. Despite the crisis, records show Blaauwklippen still produced 50 leaguers of wine and two leaguers of brandy under Jacobus Dirk Uys between 1877–1894. This resilience highlights the farm’s ability to withstand one of the greatest agricultural challenges in South African viticulture. 1890 Manor House Loses Its Gables A fire in the late 1800s likely damaged the Manor House, leading to the replacement of its thatched roof with corrugated iron for safety reasons. Raising the walls to fit the new roof caused the historic gables to be demolished. This 1938 photo shows the house with its corrugated roof and clipped gables. When Stephen Palmes took ownership between 1947 and 1964, the gables and thatched roof were restored. 1890’s Jonkershuis farm school During previous centuries, many farms operated government primary schools. A room in the Jonkershuis on Blaauwklippen was used for this purpose until the early decades of the 20th century. According to a strong tradition, Sybella (Issie) Krige, later to become the wife of the well-known statesman Jan Smuts, taught there for a while before her marriage in 1897. Issie became affectionately known as “Grandma Smuts” during World War II, when she founded the Gifts and Comforts Fund, which sent homemade gifts and delicacies to soldiers on the frontlines. 1897 Dr JT Hahn and Cecil John Rhodes Dr JT Hahn purchased Blaauwklippen in 1897 from Dr Friedrich A Hauf. Despite his academic background, he struggled with practical farming and went bankrupt within 18 months. Financial assistance came from Cecil John Rhodes, who briefly took control of the farm after Hahn’s insolvency. Rhodes then sold the farm again on the very same day, likely to a prearranged buyer. 1899 Jamestown Settlement In 1899, owner Johannes Roux began selling off sections of Blaauwklippen land. These plots formed the basis of Jamestown, now a suburb of Stellenbosch. The settlement’s origins are linked to missionary Jakob Weber, who began work in the Stellenbosch area in 1882 under the Renish Missionary Society. Jamestown grew from these early efforts into a distinct community with strong historical ties to the farm. 1901 Jamestown In 1899 owner Johannes Roux starts to sell pieces of Blaauwklippen land. The Stellenbosch suburb of Jamestown is laid out on what was once two sections of Blaauwklippen. The original settlement was started through the efforts of German missionary Jakob Weber. Weber started working in the Stellenbosch area in 1882 in the service of the Renish Missionary Society. The land was intended as a housing project for Rhenish parishioners. It was divided into so-called watererwe, which were long, narrow strips of fertile farmland leading down to the river. The houses were built at the top end and the rest of the narrow plot was planted with small-scale crops which were watered from the river. These early farmers were reputedly the first to farm with strawberries in the country. 1903 Pieter de Waal, the Teetotaller Pieter de Waal, nicknamed “Pieter Eenarm” after losing his right arm to a spear injury, owned Blaauwklippen in the early 20th century. A devout teetotaller, he destroyed all vines that had survived the phylloxera outbreak, refusing to support wine production. Instead, he focused on farming tobacco, pigs, and apples, reshaping the farm’s output during his tenure. His daughter, Trudie de Waal, later became headmistress of Jan van Riebeeck Primary School in Cape Town from 1922 to 1934. 1915 A valuable photograph A precious family picture from 1915 tells the story of our Manor House development. In 1890 the gables were clipped off and the thatched roof replaced with corrugated iron. The house also had no shutters on the windows. To the right, a closed-off side court is visible. The image gives us a glimpse of Pieter and Gertruida de Waal, with some of their children enjoying a day under the giant oaks on the Manor House front lawn. The two trees in the middle are still original. Willem de Waal, their son, who was also the owner of Blaauwklippen between 1937-1947, mentions in a letter to Mr. Boonzaaier that the trees succumbed to storms in 1927 and 1936 and later got replaced with the ones we see today. On the western side of the house, the giant oaks also got removed over the years. In 2020 new trees were planted. 1953 The Great Flood In April 1953, relentless heavy rains caused the Blouklip River to overflow, flooding vast portions of the farm. Water levels rose up to 40 metres in certain areas, leaving lasting damage across the property. A wooden flood marker was placed on the bathhouse, noting “Flood level April 1953.” On 14 June 2023, the flood level was exceeded by 1 cm when the river breached its banks once again. 1971 Stellenbosch Wine Route Established Blaauwklippen became one of the founding members of the Stellenbosch Wine Route. Stellenbosch was the first wine region in South Africa to create an organised wine route, offering visitors an accessible network of wineries to explore. This milestone positioned Blaauwklippen as part of a pioneering tourism initiative that continues to draw local and international visitors. 1972 Graham Boonzaaier Revives the Estate Graham Boonzaaier purchased Blaauwklippen in 1972, bringing renewed vision and investment. Extensive restorations were carried out across the estate, with new buildings added to support modern winemaking. A new winery and vineyard replanting programme began, producing the first new wines under winemaker Walter Finlayson by 1980. Visitors could experience wine tastings and Cape Malay-inspired meals at the Cape Kitchen Restaurant. Boonzaaier also showcased one of South Africa’s largest carriage collections, offering scenic coach rides through vineyards and oak-lined avenues with coachman Malaky. 1975 Walter Finlayson Legacy In 1975 Walter Finlayson joined then owner Graham Boonzaaier and took on the position of winemaker at Blaauwklippen. Together, they transformed the farm by replanting vineyards and creating extraordinary wines which laid the building blocks for the wine estate Blaauwklippen has become today. During his time as winemaker, Walter excelled and was awarded the Diners Club Winemaker of the Year title in 1981 and 1982, for his Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon 1980. It is said that Zinfandel grapes were first introduced to South Africa by Walter in 1977. 1984 Blaauwklippen Blending Competition Launches Founded by Walter Finlayson in 1984. Established as South Africa’s longest-running wine blending competition, inviting wine enthusiasts from across the country to test their blending skills. Participants receive a kit with Blaauwklippen wines, measuring vessels, and blending guidelines. The winning blend is bottled and released as a limited-edition magnum with the winning club’s name on the label. Today, the competition remains a signature event, celebrating four decades of blending tradition. 1999 German Ownership and Modernisation In 1999, Blaauwklippen was acquired by the Schörghuber Corporate Group (Farmer’s Markt Landhandel). During their ownership until 2017, the focus was on producing premium red wines. A major barrel replacement programme introduced both French and American oak, elevating wine quality. The hospitality offering was expanded with a French-style restaurant, new wine tasting facilities, and a wine shop. In 2011, the Blaauwklippen Family Market was launched, adding a popular attraction to the estate. 2016 Narina Cloete Becomes Winemaker Narina Cloete joined Blaauwklippen in June 2016 as head winemaker. She holds an Honours BSc in Oenology, graduating cum laude from Stellenbosch University. Her winemaking experience includes harvests at Glen Carlou Vineyards, Dornier Wines, AA Badenhorst Family Wines, and Stellenzicht Wine Estate. Since her appointment, she has overseen both innovation and preservation of Blaauwklippen’s winemaking traditions. 2017 A New Era of Transformation In late 2017, Blaauwklippen was acquired by a consortium of South African businessmen committed to revitalising the estate. Key initiatives under the new ownership included: Restoring the historic Manor House and Jonkershuis into five-star accommodation. Establishing the Glass Cathedral as a unique wedding and event venue. Renovating the Tasting Room and restaurant. Launching a premium product portfolio. Creating a Farm Shop & Deli, later expanded into a full restaurant. 2018 A new era Towards the end of 2017, Blaauwklippen was purchased by a consortium of South Africa businessmen with a passion for the Winelands and the South African wine industry. Under new ownership, the team implemented and extensive turnaround strategy that includes: The renovation of the historic Manor House and Jonkershuis into a five-star accommodation offering The establishment of the Glass Cathedral as a one-of-a-kind wedding venue The renovation of the Tasting Room and restaurant A new and premium product portfolio The establishment of a Farm Shop & Deli which has since become a new restaurant. A brand new Velosolutions Pump Track and a state-of-the-art kiddies play area at the new Bike park 2022 Chardonnay The first Blaauwklippen Chardonnay since 1993 launched in 2023! This elegant wine showcases some rich citrus and orange blossom tones with hints of yellow peach and Crème Brûlée. Its creamy, buttery palate combines well with Thai curries, seafood and Spring weather. Shop this fresh, well-balanced beauty on our online store and get it delivered to your door anywhere in South Africa. 2023 New Offerings Our new Tasting House offers seasonal wine pairings, perfectly harmonized by Blaauwklippen’s winemaker, Narina Cloete together with the new chefs from Cucina di Giovanni. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of art at our IS Art Gallery, nestled within our exquisite Tasting House. The newly renovated restaurant offers Italian-inspired cuisine by Chef Cucina di Giovanni. 2024 Flames of Desolation On 7 April 2024, gale force winds fuelled a devastating fire at Blaauwklippen, Stellenbosch’s oldest wine farm dating back to 1682. The blaze caused severe damage to historic landmarks, including the Jonkershuis (1720), the Manor House (1760–1789), the Millhouse, and the Glass Cathedral (2018), a well-known wedding venue. Fortunately, no lives were lost during the disaster. 2025 Honouring the Past, Rebuilding the Future – Reopening November 2025 In true Blaauwklippen spirit, tragedy was met with resilience. Restoration began swiftly, driven by a deep commitment to heritage preservation and authentic craftsmanship. Every stone, beam, and archway is being carefully restored with reverence for the estate’s rich architectural legacy. We are proud to announce that the Manor House and Jonkershuis will reopen in November 2025, welcoming guests back to experience the soul of Blaauwklippen once more. While our accommodation remains closed for now, the rest of the estate is open and thriving. Visit us to enjoy award-winning wines, gourmet food, outdoor adventures, and the enduring spirit of one of Stellenbosch’s most historic wine farms. Join us as we honour the past and shape the next chapter of Blaauwklippen’s story.