Natte Valleij Wines

WINES WITH CHARACTER, PASSIONATELY HAND-CRAFTED

The historic farm of Natte Valleij Wines is set on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg mountain, just outside of Stellenbosch. It oozes a sense of history, with its homestead, old wine cellars, brandy stills, mature gardens, ancient trees, pergolas, ponds and all surrounded by lime-washed walls. Bought by the Milner Family in 1969 as a run down winery that had not produced wine since the 50’s. Their grandfather, Sir Mordaunt Milner, a famed South African horse breeder, felt Natte Valleij ideal for pursuing his passion of equine brilliance. It would breed some of South Africa’s finest racehorses for 30 years.

It was in 2005, that the horses were led out and the barrels rolled back into the 300 year old winery and once again the sounds of wine were back. Winemaking is spearheaded by youngest son, Alexander Milner, now 3rd generation Milner on Natte Valleij. He started in 2005, After graduating as a qualified winemaker from Stellenbosch University, he was determined to return Natte Valleij to an epitome of classic South African wine. Focusing primarily on Cinsault, Alexander’s passion is seeking out forgotten patches of old dry-land bush vines that he felt would offer exceptional quality and interest.

“These old vines have always fascinated me by their dogged persistence to exist.” We hope our wines speak louder than words in expressing the dynamic Cape. Our philosophy at Natte Valleij Wines is simple, respect the soil, the vine and the wine, with minimal interference and pretence. Guiding beautiful grapes into character full wines -preserving the intrinsic link between bottle and grape.