Robertson - Bonnievale wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

Ward

Bonnievale is a ward, or demarcated wine-growing area, within the Robertson district, part of the Breede River Valley wine region in the Western Cape. It lies at the eastern edge of the district, centred on the town of the same name, between the Langeberg and Riviersonderend mountain ranges, on the banks of the Breede River. The climate is hot and dry, with low annual rainfall, moderated by south-easterly breezes and by wide temperature swings between day and night. Bonnievale's clay-limestone soils are among the most lime-rich in the whole of the Robertson district, giving the ward a distinctive terroir profile within the wider area. Chardonnay finds particularly favourable conditions here, alongside other white and red varieties grown throughout the valley, on land irrigated by the river.

The wines of this appellation

Bonnievale produces mainly white wines, with Chardonnay as the leading variety, often vinified as cuvées specific to the ward to express the limestone minerality of the local soils. These wines show a pale, golden-tinged colour, aromas of citrus and white-fleshed fruit, a lively palate and a fuller texture when aged in barrel. Sauvignon Blanc is also grown in the valley. Red wines are made from Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with supple tannins and aromas of dark fruit and spice. Bonnievale's white wines pair well with fish, shellfish and poultry in light sauces, while the reds suit grilled meats and matured cheeses. Some more structured Chardonnay cuvées can be cellared for several years.