Acquiring an Avontuur: DGB expands its Helderberg footprint

Helderberg, as a wine-growing ward of Stellenbosch, though still undefined, is fast running out of hectarage to contribute toward new winemaking ventures. What with the acquisition from foreigners like Baron Hans von Staff-Reitzenstein of Alto (most recently including a portion of neighbouring Bilton), Ernie Els, and Stellenzicht, and the Oddo Family's acquisition of Taaibosch and Pink Valley.

Not to mention DGB's (SA's largest independent wine and spirits producers and distributors) acquisition of some 136ha on the Helderberg, finalised in October last year and comprised of long-term agreements with six local owners, allowing them to retain their land, while DGB takes responsibility for the profitability of its vines. They have undertaken to replant 100ha to further contribute toward the area's sustainability as one of SA's top wine-producing regions.