Mellasat Vineyards

Mellasat Vineyards: A Gem Near Cape Town

Mellasat Vineyards, established by the Richardson family in 1996, is located on the historic Dekkersvlei farm, which dates back to 1693. Nestled near Paarl, just 45 minutes from Cape Town, this boutique winery boasts stunning views of the Klein Drakenstein mountains and the iconic granite domes of Paarl.

Notably, Mellasat Vineyards is the first winery in the world to produce and release a White Pinotage commercially.

Exceptional South African Wines

Since 1997, Stephen Richardson has been transforming the vineyard by replacing some of the existing Chenin Blanc vines with renowned varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Chardonnay, and the unique South African Pinotage. With the guidance of local viticulturist Poena Malherbe, careful selection of rootstock has been made to thrive in the warm climate and granitic soils of the Paarl region. The vineyard also cultivates Tempranillo and Viognier, which have recently begun production. The eight-hectare vineyard is managed to reflect its distinctive terroir, and both the vineyard and winery adhere to the Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) and Wine of Origin standards, ensuring quality and traceability.

A Unique Wine Experience

The dedicated team of viticulturists, winemakers, and tasting room staff at Mellasat Vineyards ensures that every visit is memorable. The tasting center offers breathtaking views of the Paarl valley and the rugged Klein Drakenstein mountains. Additionally, the winery features a Cemetery of Forgotten Wines in its underground cellar, showcasing an intriguing collection of museum wines that visitors can interact with, making it a truly unique experience for wine enthusiasts.