Altima was purchased in 2008 from the Ovenstone Family. Situated in the isolated Elandskloof valley just north of Villiersdorp, it is 5km wide and surrounded by a steep mountain range rising 1km from the valley floor. There are only four farms in the valley, of which Altima is the only developed vineyard farm. The surrounding mountains are all nature reserves typically covered in snow during the winter months, with only one road connecting the valley to the rest of the world via a treacherous pass. Originally planted with pine and apple trees, these were mostly removed when Rupert Wines started cultivating the farm, only leaving a small patch of pine trees and the rest to vine.
Altitude
Vineyards are planted from 600m above sea-level…
Vineyards are planted from 600m above sea-level, with the highest vineyard planted at 878m. The steep topography causes the valley to receive less direct sunlight, due to the overshadowing mountains, which together with the elevation makes for a distinct cool climate.
Cool Climate
With a total average rainfall of 906mm per year…
With a total average rainfall of 906mm per year, irrigation is generally unnecessary before the end of December. Coupled with the huge difference in temperatures between night and day, this continental climate is perfect for grapevine development for two reasons: Excellent development of acid and aromas as a result of the slow ripening period and the absence of heat waves during January and February. The resultant high acid and low pH of the grapes contributes to the aging potential of the wines produced from these vines.
The Wine & Black Truffles
One of the first South African Estates to cultivate Black Pergord Truffles…
This unique terroir produces wine with high natural acidity and upfront aromas. Grapes are harvested much later than other sites, with harvest starting at the beginning of April only. The vineyards produce an intense Sauvignon Blanc with a fresh expression of gooseberry, citrus, and freshly cut grass. Other than wine, the Estate has also proven to be the perfect breeding ground, and one of the first in South Africa, to cultivate Black Perigord truffles – offering seasonal tours to the farm to discover these earthy delights.
The Vineyards
Ha |
7.99 |
Number of Blocks |
5 |
Years Planted |
2002-2018 |
Clones |
4, 905, 376,316 |
Rootstock |
R110, R99, Ramsey, US 8/7 |
Altitude |
692 – 815m |
Trellising |
VSP, SBP |
Irrigation |
Drip |
Ha |
7.96 |
Number of Blocks |
5 |
Years Planted |
2003-2014 |
Clones |
559, 9, 95, 548, 76 |
Rootstock |
R110, Ruggeri140 |
Altitude |
681-767m |
Trellising |
VSP |
Irrigation |
Drip |
Ha |
2.25 |
Number of Blocks |
1 |
Years Planted |
2009 |
Clones |
40,52 |
Rootstock |
R110 |
Altitude |
725m |
Trellising |
VSP |
Irrigation |
Drip |
Ha |
6.86 |
Number of Blocks |
9 |
Years Planted |
2009-2015 |
Clones |
115, 667, 777, 52 |
Rootstock |
R110, 101/14 |
Altitude |
702-874m |
Trellising |
VSP, SBP |
Irrigation |
Drip |
Ha |
2.2 |
Number of Blocks |
1 |
Years Planted |
2001 |
Clones |
MO36A |
Rootstock |
R110 |
Altitude |
692m |
Trellising |
VSP |
Irrigation |
Drip |