Cederberg Wines

Cederberg Private Cellar is South Africa's highest winery, perched at over 1,000 metres above sea level on the farm Dwarsrivier in the remote Cederberg Wilderness Area. The Nieuwoudt family -- whose surname means 'New Wood' -- have farmed this land since 1893, making fifth-generation winemaker David Nieuwoudt the custodian of over 130 years of family history in one of the most dramatic and isolated wine-producing locations on earth.

The terroir is unlike anything else in the Cape Winelands. The high altitude delivers a cold climate without coastal influences, with large diurnal temperature swings that extend the ripening season and preserve natural acidity. Mountain spring water irrigates the vines, and the pure, remote environment keeps the vineyards entirely virus-free -- a rare distinction that contributes to the exceptional purity of fruit in every bottle. The combination of ancient Bokkeveld shale soils, extreme elevation, and pristine growing conditions produces wines of remarkable intensity and freshness.

David Nieuwoudt leads what he calls a 'team with attitude' -- a small, passionate crew committed to sustainable, minimal-intervention winemaking. The grape portfolio includes Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cinsault. The wines are released across several ranges: the core Cederberg label, the flagship Five Generations range (sourced from single vineyards with only the top barrels selected), the Ghost Corner range from cooler coastal vineyards, the Longavi range, and the Rising Star entry-level label.

The Five Generations Cabernet Sauvignon and Five Generations Chenin Blanc represent the pinnacle of the estate's production -- limited quantities released annually from the finest vineyard blocks. David Nieuwoudt is also a member of the Cape Winemakers Guild, producing a limited CWG auction wine.

Visitors make the journey to the Cederberg for the tasting room experience and the extraordinary natural setting. The contemporary tasting room offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where knowledgeable staff guide guests through the range, including the acclaimed Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz. The Nieuwoudt family also operates Sanddrif Holiday Resort on the farm, offering self-catering accommodation in the Cederberg mountains. Dogs are not permitted on the premises. The cellar and tasting room are open Monday to Saturday, making this a destination that rewards the effort of getting there with wines and landscapes found nowhere else in South Africa.