(AA Badenhorst Family Wines)

Somewhere between Malmesbury and Wellington on a farm called Kalmoesfontein, you will find witty co-owner and dedicated winemaker Adi Badenhorst. Here he spends his days sniffing barrels, swirling wine and making sure that the angels take only their share and leave the rest for us mortals to enjoy.

A person could say that Adi’s heart pumps wine.  Why? Let history reveal itself:

Adi’s grandfather was the general manager at Groot Constantia for 46 years. His father was born there and farmed on neighboring Buitenverwachting for many years.  Adi grew up between the vineyards and spent his time picking (stealing) grapes. His cousin was also born and bred in Constantia and like their fathers,  they now proudly farm together as owners of A.A. Badenhorst Family Wines where they practice biological farming.

Adi goes about the ancient magic of turning grapes into wine by focusing on creating natural wines crafted in the traditional manner. What better place to do this than a historic cellar that was last used in 1930.

Wine is not just about sniffing or swirling, wine is about drinking it, enjoying it and thus creating fond memories. When we asked Adi what he drinks when friends are visiting, he said: “A.A. Badenhorst Family Wines of course”. But he also mentioned that Groot Constantia wines, Graham Beck Methode Cap Classique and Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel share a special place in his heart.

Adi’s wines are hand-crafted to perfection and this will reflect once the cork is pulled and the wine starts flowing.  A.A. Badenhorst Family Wines have created  the following  wines:

Secateurs Red Blend 2008 (Shiraz /Mourvedre/Viognier)

Secatuers Chenin Blanc 2009

Secatuers Old Vine Rose 2009 (Cinsault/ Grenache)

A. A. Badenhorst Red 2006 (Shiraz/Mourvedre/Cinsault)  

A. A. Badenhorst White 2007 (Roussanne/Grenache Blanc/Viognier/ Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc)

Hands On Wine features the Secateurs Red Blend 2008.

When he is not in his cellar Adi spends his time with his wife Cornelia, son Samuel and daughter Ana. He has two dogs – a Bouvier and a pavement-special. His other great love is cooking.  Adi enjoys preparing food that needs heaps of T.L.C. and time to simmer until it is just perrrrrrfect, just like his wine.

When we asked him what really tickles his fancy, he confessed that his love for a hollandaise sauce is sometimes in stiff competition with his wife (if you know Adi and Cornelia you’d know that nobody can love hollandaise sauce THIS much) .  As far as wine cultivars goes he favours Grenache, Chenin Blanc and Shiraz.

What more can one say about Adi?  Tons, but rather try his wine; it will take you into another dimension. Sip slowly and get caught up in the fairytale.  Goldie Locks and the Three Bears might end up on your ‘stoep’ having a party, while Hamlet and Macbeth will fight for the last drop.

If you need any more information feel free to visit www.aabadenhorst.com.

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