Hermanus, South Africa
Winery tour: Spookfontein Wine Farm in Hermanus, South Africa
What’s the winery in a nutshell?
Spookfontein Wine Farm is a boutique winery set in the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley near Hermanus. Its very name – meaning ghost fountain in Afrikaans – comes from a local legend that a spirit can be seen swirling in the farm’s spring. Quality over quantity is the mantra here, with a focus on sustainable farming and minimalist intervention. What makes Spookfontein truly special is its sense of place – the winery’s curved, eco-friendly architecture literally blends into the hillside and the experience goes beyond wine tasting. Here you can sip wine while soaking in heavenly views (and maybe a hint of ghostly mist) of this heaven-and-earth valley.
What’s the story behind the vineyard?
Hemel-en-Aarde: heaven on earth for wine
Spookfontein lies in the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, a region often dubbed South Africa’s answer to Burgundy. Hemel-en-Aarde (Afrikaans for Heaven and Earth) earned its name for the lofty encircling hills that make the sky and land feel as one. The valley’s cool climate is a major draw – ocean fog and breezes from nearby Walker Bay bring natural air-conditioning each summer evening. Compared to most South African wine areas, this region stays milder year-round, with higher rainfall around 750 millimetres per year that often negates the need for irrigation.
The vineyards here sit between 100 and 200 metres above sea level, on slopes of clay-rich Bokkeveld shale and granite, yielding low vigour but high character grapes. This climate and terroir allow slower, balanced ripening – perfect for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that retain bright acidity and reds like Cabernet Franc that develop complex flavours.
Spookfontein takes full advantage of these conditions. Its vines – including cool-loving varietals like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah – thrive alongside hardy wild fynbos, producing wines with concentrated fruit and a distinct sense of place.
In fact, the farm’s relatively high elevation at the valley’s head means harvests happen a bit later and the resulting wines often exhibit crisp acidity and smooth tannins that lovers of refined cool-climate styles will love.
From ghost story to family wine estate
The land that is now Spookfontein has an agricultural history dating back to 1847, but its modern wine saga began in the 1990s. Entrepreneur and nature lover Mike Davis – founder of eyewear brands Ocean Eyewear and Dragon Sports – was looking for a retreat in the Cape and felt the mystical allure of this Hemel-en-Aarde property. He purchased the farm in 1996 and, together with his family, set about planting vineyards on 14 hectares of the terrain.
At first, winemaking was a passion project for lazy weekends, but the potential of the terroir couldn’t be ignored. The estate’s name, Spookfontein, became its identity – a nod to the eerie mist that sometimes dances over the natural spring and a promise of wines with a bit of legend in every bottle.
The Davis family’s journey into wine bore fruit with Spookfontein’s first vintage in 2005. Over the next decade, they nurtured the vineyards and brought in expert collaborators to raise the winery’s profile. A pivotal moment was opening the tasting room in December 2013, finally giving the public a chance to experience Spookfontein on-site.
Who’s behind the wine?
The family and their philosophy
Spookfontein remains family-owned, with Mike Davis and family at the helm, infusing the operation with a personal touch. Mike’s love of nature and background as a successful businessman set the tone for Spookfontein’s growth. He didn’t seek to create a mass-market winery but rather a soulful estate true to its environment.
Under the Davis family’s guidance, the farm has always prioritised sustainability and authenticity over flashiness. Large portions of the 313-hectare property have been left wild or planted with olives, preserving a fynbos haven around the vines.
The family’s ethos is evident everywhere – from the way the cellar was built into the hillside to the welcoming, down-to-earth vibe you feel when you arrive. It’s very much a passion project that grew into a thriving enterprise. Over the years, the Davises have brought in skilled professionals to elevate their wines, but the family’s hands-on, heart-in approach remains the backbone.
The woman behind the wine
In the cellar, Spookfontein has entered an exciting new chapter with the arrival of winemaker Jeanne Pienaar in 2025. Jeanne brings a fresh energy and an artistic touch to Spookfontein’s winemaking team. She describes winemaking as a story in a bottle, treating each vintage as a time capsule of place and people.
Her philosophy centres on quality, simplicity and sustainability. Jeanne works closely with viticulturists and nature itself. She’s as much an environmental steward as a winemaker, firmly believing that healthier vines and soils lead to better wine in the glass.
Jeanne’s background is in both science and art (she even has a passion for design), which you can sense in her approach – she’s methodical about the technical side of fermentation and ageing, yet she isn’t afraid to follow intuition and creativity when it comes to crafting blends.
Jeanne succeeds a line of dedicated winemakers who paved the way, including Nelis Uys (who led the cellar from 2021) and Dewald Grobler before him. They helped put Spookfontein on the map with award-winning releases and now Jeanne is building on that legacy.
What wines are they known for, and which three should I try?
Spookfontein may be boutique, but it boasts an impressively diverse wine range for its size. The estate has become known for cool-climate classics like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well as structured reds and unique blends that reflect their terroir. On the white side, their Sauvignon Blanc captures a zesty, tropical character reminiscent of New Zealand styles, thanks to the ocean-cooled vineyards. They also produce a standout Chenin Blanc and even craft a Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wine, showcasing the breadth of what Hemel-en-Aarde can do.
But it’s Spookfontein’s red wines that particularly turn heads. Phantom, the estate’s flagship red, is a Merlot-led Bordeaux blend that wine lovers rave about. It’s the kind of wine that combines Old World elegance with New World fruit – we’ll say more on that in a moment. They also make Opera, a smooth Rhône-style GSM blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre) that nods to the classic Phantom of the Opera theme in a playful way. Single varietals like Cabernet Franc and Syrah thrive here too, developing deep flavour without losing the restraint that the farm’s unique climate provides.
Spookfontein has committed to sustainable practices in the vineyard, which they believe directly impact wine quality. They’re not certified organic or biodynamic, but they embrace many of those principles – encouraging biodiversity (wild grasses and cover crops between vines), minimal chemical intervention and conserving water (the farm’s spring and high rainfall reduce the need for irrigation).
Spookfontein is also a proud member of the WWF’s Conservation Champion programme, maintaining large tracts of indigenous flora on the property – so when you taste their wines, you’re literally tasting the Cape’s endemic landscape. The result of all this careful viticulture and terroir-driven philosophy? A range of wines that feel honest and unforced, each with its own personality.
Try These
We’re spoilt for choice at Spookfontein – but here are three of our favourites that truly showcase what this boutique winery is all about.
01
Phantom
If Spookfontein had a signature wine, it would be the Phantom. This Merlot-Cabernet blend is the estate’s flagship red and it’s nothing short of spellbinding. The Phantom opens with a rich nose of dark berries and cherry, laced with a whiff of cedar smoke and sweet spice. It’s as if the cool mountain air lent the wine a subtle smokiness. Take a sip and you’ll experience layers of flavour – blackcurrant and plum from the Cabernet, red cherry and a hint of chocolate from the Merlot, all wrapped in velvety tannins. Despite its ripe fruit core, Phantom is no overbearing brute – true to Spookfontein’s terroir, it has a streak of fresh acidity and a long, clean finish that leaves you wanting another sip.
We love how the Phantom manages to be both powerful and graceful – a difficult balancing act. It consistently earns high praise (the 2022 vintage scored 4.5 stars in Platter’s Guide) and after one glass, it’s easy to see why. This is a wine that evolves in the glass, revealing a new ghostly whisper of flavour with each moment. For us, Phantom captures the essence of Spookfontein – a bit mysterious, deeply layered and utterly enjoyable.
02
Pinot Noir
Spookfontein’s Pinot Noir is a must-try, especially given the estate’s location in one of South Africa’s premier cool-climate regions. In the glass, this Pinot shows a translucent ruby hue and an aromatic bouquet that draws you in gently. You’ll notice delicate red fruit notes – wild cherry and raspberry – along with a hint of rose petals and dried herbs. Swirl again and a subtle forest floor earthiness emerges, characteristic of Hemel-en-Aarde Pinots. On the palate, Spookfontein’s Pinot is light-to-medium-bodied with a silky texture. Flavours of tart cherry and cranberry are framed by whispery tannins and bright acidity that gives the wine real lift. There’s a touch of smoky oak and leather in the background (the wine spends around 12–15 months in French oak, mostly older barrels), which adds complexity without overwhelming the elegant fruit.
This Pinot Noir is all about finesse. It won’t hit you over the head with power – instead, it impresses with its purity and balance. Tasting it, we appreciate how it speaks of its origin – the chilly maritime influence gives it that vibrant acidity and the rocky soil lends a light mineral streak on the finish. It’s the kind of red you can happily enjoy on a warm afternoon or pair with an earthy dish like mushroom risotto or duck. Even those new to Pinot Noir will find this one approachable, yet it has enough nuance to intrigue Burgundy fans.
03
Full Moon
White wine lovers, rejoice – Full Moon is Spookfontein’s signature white blend and it’s as captivating as its name. This is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Sémillon, combining the strengths of each varietal. In the glass, it shimmers a pale gold. The aroma is immediately enticing – ripe pear, yellow apple and apricot notes waft up, courtesy of the lush Chardonnay and Sémillon elements, balanced by a citrus and green fig streak from the Sauvignon Blanc. Take a sip and you’ll notice a lovely interplay of flavours – think stone fruit and melon sweetness brightened by a squeeze of lime. There’s a subtle buttery note in the mid-palate (just a touch, nothing heavy) that adds a round, creamy texture, likely from a portion of barrel-fermented Chardonnay.
For us, the Full Moon strikes that perfect balance between rich and racy. We were impressed by the wine’s layered complexity – each grape variety shines without dominating the blend. It’s the kind of white that will please a crowd – Sauvignon fans get their tropical zing, Chardonnay lovers get a hint of that silky body and Sémillon contributes a whisper of honeysuckle and length. Spookfontein has really crafted a story in a bottle here, capturing the essence of a summer night in the valley (perhaps that’s why they named it Full Moon). This wine is downright fun to drink. It’s sophisticated enough to pair with seafood risotto or goat’s cheese tart, yet so enjoyable on its own that you might finish the bottle before you’ve realised.
What is the tasting experience like?
Visiting Spookfontein is as much about the atmosphere as the wines. The tasting room is part of a stunning architectural complex that includes the cellar and restaurant, all designed by DJ Carr with an eye toward harmony with nature. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice how the building is tucked into the hillside rather than plonked on top – a curved brick facade and grass-covered roof help it blend into the landscape. Inside, the design theme continues with sweeping curves, natural wood finishes and large wrap-around windows framing the panoramic views of vineyards and mountains. It’s modern and minimalist, yet warm and unpretentious.
You can choose where you want to enjoy your tasting – either relax at a table on the terrace or indoors by the fireplace or stand at the tasting bar for a more interactive session with the staff. On a sunny day, we recommend sitting outside if possible – the views are truly heavenly and you might spot the famous cloud banks rolling over the mountain (on cooler days, those misty ghost clouds give the tasting patio a mystical feel).
Tasting options
Tastings at Spookfontein are relaxed and personalised. The team make you feel right at home – they’re happy to tailor the experience to your level of wine geekiness. A standard tasting usually consists of five wines of your choice or you can opt for their themed flight, like the Bordeaux Four, which features Merlot, Phantom, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon side by side (a great way to appreciate the differences).
The ultimate experience is their cellar tour with the winemaker. Every Saturday at 10 am and 2 pm, they host a 45-minute guided tour of the winery led by the winemaker. For a small fee, you get to explore behind the scenes – walking among the fermentation tanks and barrel room – and you’ll taste the full range of wines, including some not on the regular tasting menu.
Visiting tips
Spookfontein’s tasting room is open daily and you generally don’t need an appointment for standard tastings. That said, on busy summer weekends, it’s wise to call ahead or book, as the space is intimate with limited seating.
Spookfontein is about a 15-minute scenic drive from Hermanus town. If you’d rather not drive (good on you for responsible tasting!), there are local shuttle services and tours. The popular Hermanus Wine Hoppers safari jeep, for example, can include Spookfontein as a stop on their hop-on, hop-off route – a fun and safe way to explore the valley.
Alternatively, hiring a taxi or using a rideshare from Hermanus is easy – just note that the signal can be spotty up in the valley, so arrange your return transport in advance. For those coming from Cape Town (about 1.5 hours away), consider making a day of it with a guided wine tour to Hemel-en-Aarde so you can sit back and enjoy the views (and wines) without worry.
What else?
Spookfontein Restaurant
A visit to Spookfontein wouldn’t be complete without staying for a meal. The on-site Spookfontein Restaurant serves meals that perfectly complement the wines. Housed in the same architectural marvel as the tasting room, the restaurant features floor-to-ceiling glass and a wraparound terrace, offering you views of the valley as a backdrop to your meal. The kitchen’s philosophy is all about authenticity, creativity and precision. That means dishes are prepared with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, many from nearby farms and the coast. The chef lets the quality of the produce shine, elevating it with creative touches.
Vineyard cottages
To truly immerse yourself in the Spookfontein experience, consider staying overnight in one of the farm’s self-catering cottages. The estate offers two cottages – Blue Crane Cottage and Sunbird Cottage – each set in a scenic spot between the vineyards and fynbos.
Blue Crane Cottage is a real charmer, featuring high reed ceilings and a large stone fireplace that make it incredibly cosy in the winter months. Waking up here, you can throw open the French doors of your bedroom and step out onto a patio with magnificent valley views – often with mist hugging the vineyards in the early morning.
Sunbird Cottage, on the other hand, boasts a spacious covered stoep (veranda) that gives you front-row seats to Hemel-en-Aarde’s sunsets. It also has a built-in braai (barbecue) at the back, perfect for a South African-style cookout under the stars. Both cottages are two-bedroom units, simply yet elegantly furnished in a country style with an emphasis on comfort.
Do note that there are only two cottages, each sleeping up to four people, so book early if you plan to overnight – they are popular, especially in whale season (June–December), when many visitors use Spookfontein as a base to explore Hermanus and its whale-watching attractions.
Outdoor activities
Spookfontein itself invites you to wander – there are walking paths through the vineyards and fynbos where you can stretch your legs and take in different viewpoints of the valley. A short hike up the slope behind the cellar will give you a unique vantage point of the farm, with the patchwork of vineyards below and the Babilonstoring Mountain looming opposite. If you are a birdwatcher, you will have plenty to spot – the farm is home to Cape sugarbirds, sunbirds, guinea fowl and even the blue cranes that give the one cottage its name.
For those who enjoy more active pursuits, there are a few mountain biking trails crisscrossing the property and connecting to neighbouring farms – bring your bike or ask the staff if they can arrange a rental or guided ride. The trails range from gentle farm roads to more challenging single-track through the hills (the views alone are worth the pedal).
If horseback riding is your thing, Spookfontein can arrange horse rides through a nearby outfitter, taking you on a scenic trek among the valleys and ridgelines of Hemel-en-Aarde.
Spookfontein Wine Farm
33 Hemel en Aarde Rd
Hermanus
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Spookfontein Wine Farm
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Spookfontein Wine Farm
33 Hemel en Aarde Rd
Hermanus
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Spookfontein Wine Garm
Urban
Rural
Trendy
Classic
Happening
Serene
Affordable
Lavish