
Vinification & maturation
Grapes
South Africa
Avondale Wine is an organic and biodynamic estate in Paarl, Western Cape, owned by John and Ginny Grieve since 1997 and managed by their son Johnathan Grieve, who oversees the vineyards. Winemaker Corné Marais, in place since 2008, follows a natural, low-intervention approach with spontaneous fermentation, minimal sulfur, and the use of clay amphorae and Georgian qvevri. Farming integrates chicken and duck squads for natural pest control, reflecting a practical blend of biodynamic methods and modern science. The estate spans varied soils, including loam, decomposed granite, and sandstone, supporting a thoughtful, terroir-focused approach in both vineyard and cellar.
Vineyard scale
Medium
40-80 ha
Production scale
Small
60-120k bottles/yr