At this time of year I find myself reflecting on how fortunate southern hemisphere wine makers are. The fact that this time, where we all reflect on the achievements of the last year and the challenges of the coming year, coincides with the time in the vineyard where we are literally watching the fruit grow, is truly auspicious.


What is the potential of this year’s crop? What qualities is the soil going to give our wine this year? What is this little bunch of fruit going to taste like when it’s in the bottle?

It is amazing to take a sip of wine and think about all the things that have contributed to the taste of the wine, from the soil to the fruit to the blending and bottling. But, as I sit here looking out over the vineyards, I know that the soil is the heart of a wine.

The last couple of weeks at The Berrio have been hectic so we’ll be “easing out” as we sail into 2010.

We’ve been to the Johannesburg Winex and participated in the Elim Wine Growers Auction at the Bredasdorp Air Show.


JHB Winex was excellent. Our stand was full all the time and it was wonderful to meet the managers of the restaurants and wineries that stock our wines. We are truly grateful for the hearty welcomes, the personal visits and especially to those who managed to pop in despite having full appointment schedules. It was also a treat to enjoy a meal after a full day on our feet at Cilantro who have The Berrio wines on their wine list!

The Bredasdorp Airshow Wine Auction was a great success and will become a regular part of the bi-annual event. All funds raised went to Rûens College – a school close to the heart of the Elim Wine Growers.

Franchen participated in the Akkoord Summer Christmas Concert on December 5th. Akkoord is the harmony of three or more tones that fuse together to sound like one. A beautiful and uplifting sound.

Francia finished primary school this year and is looking forward to attending Bredasdorp High School next year and Catherine goes into Grade 1 at Bredasdorp Primary School.

We’re going to the Magaliesberg for a few days in December where Francis is meeting with a prospective distributor for the Mphumalanga/Limpopo area. Elsje will be holding the fort while we’re gone.


Remember that by “easing out” we mean (as in sailing) relieving tension for a more comfortable and pacier journey, so although you’ll find us at The Berrio relaxing in the sun, swimming and riding horses, we’re most definitely open.

The Tasting Room is open for tastings without appointment from the 15th of December to the 15th of January (Weekdays: 9am-5pm, Saturdays: 10am-3pm); and we have a fabulous lunch platter that you can order to  enjoy with your wine on the farm.

Looking forward to seeing you!