Haute Cabriere

Clos Cabriere is the original name of the Franschhoek property purchased by German-born winemaker Achim von Arnim in 1982, now known worldwide as Haute Cabriere. The name traces back to 1694, when Huguenot Pierre Jourdan received a parcel of land in the Franschhoek Valley and named it Cabriere after his hometown in the south of France.

Achim von Arnim was among the very first producers in South Africa to create Cap Classique -- the country's traditional-method sparkling wine. In 1986 he released the Pierre Jourdan Brut, named after the original Huguenot landowner. He also created the first-ever still wine blend from the traditional champagne varietals Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, producing the now-iconic Haute Cabriere Chardonnay Pinot Noir that remains the estate's signature.

Von Arnim was famous for the art of sabrage -- opening a bottle of Cap Classique with a French cavalry sabre during cellar tours, a dramatic tradition that continues today under his son, Takuan von Arnim, who serves as second-generation Cellar Master.

The Berg Street address in Franschhoek village serves as the retail and tasting point for the estate. The Haute Cabriere Cellar Restaurant, built into the mountainside on Lambrechts Road, offers panoramic valley views. Wine tastings are available at R70 per person, with cellar tour and tasting at R95. The restaurant serves a two-course menu at R320 and three courses at R390, Thursday to Monday from midday.

The Pierre Jourdan Cap Classique range includes the Brut, Brut Reserve, Belle Rose, Blanc de Blancs, and Ratafia. The still wine portfolio covers the full spectrum of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir expressions, from Unwooded versions to oak-aged Reserves and the Arnim Family Reserve.