Soil is Life

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Life begins in the soil.    At Avondale we are acutely aware that healthy balance in our vineyard Eco-system, in our wines and in our own lives is dependent on first achieving healthy balance in our soil.  Chemically, biologically and physically the health of soil, water, plants, animals and humans are intricately inter-related.

More than a decade ago, when Avondale set out on a quest to make premium quality wines in harmony with Nature, we had to start with restoring balance to over-used soil that had also been abused by years of poor agricultural practices.  We had a close ally in Nature, who strives tirelessly to create the balance needed for life to flourish.  Still it took time to learn about the community of life in our soil and apply this knowledge in ecologically wise ways.  Over the years, we have been guided by the philosophy, and have used the soil balancing system pioneered by environmental scientist Dr William Albrecht, a respected authority on the relationship between soil fertility and ecosystem health.  Through re-mineralisation we have returned vital, natural mineral elements to our soil which is enhanced and sustained by the pure quality of the spring water we use for irrigation.  This re-mineralisation process works in conjunction with establishing a thriving, diverse plant community that hosts an abundance of soil microbes.

The Albrecht System

Dr William Albrecht was the world’s foremost authority on the impact of soil health on the health of plants, animals and people.  He was born in Illinois in 1888, and when he retired he was an emeritus Professor of Soils at the University of Missouri who had contributed hugely through his research, writing and teaching of soil science.  Throughout his life, Dr Albrecht looked to Nature as his guide as to what constituted healthy balanced soil.  He studied the microbiology of the natural soils of prairies and forests to understand the interplay of minerals, micro-organisms and water; and to discover how natural systems created and maintained ecological balance.  What he learned convinced him that agricultural practices such as tilling and artificial fertilisation resulted in poor quality soils and plants.  He was certain would logically result in the poorer health of animals and people.  Dr Albrecht advocated mimicking Nature as far as possible to build soil fertility.  He devised a system of testing macro and micro-nutrients in the soil so as sustain a healthy community of life.  The Albrecht system is one of the ways that Avondale has used to understand our vineyard ecosystem and build the fertility of soils in a natural way so that we make our wines from healthy, balanced grapes.

Classical Melodies Under the African Skies

29th March 2025 Join us at Avondale Wine Estate for an enchanting evening of classical melodies under the stars at FABER restaurant, a captivating celebration of music and conviviality set against the breathtaking backdrop of Avondale’s scenic vineyards and mountains....

Celebrate Love this Valentine’s Day Dinner at FABER restaurant

Friday 14 February 2025 Indulge in a romantic evening with a contemporary farm-to-fork six-course tasting menu specially crafted by Chef Dale Stevens. This exceptional dining experience is designed to immerse you in culinary delights, featuring aphrodisiac-inspired...

New Years Eve Dinner 2024

Wave 2024 goodbye and step into the new year at your favourite restaurant in the heart of the Winelands, with a farm-to-fork meal, organic and biodynamic Avondale wine, live music and views of gardens, vineyards and mountains. GENERAL INFORMATION: 6 course tasting...

Carols in the Garden

SATURDAY 7th DECEMBER 2024 Join us at Avondale Wine Estate for our annual “Carols at Avondale” event—an enchanting evening of carols by candlelight at FABER restaurant, spreading the Christmas spirit throughout Paarl. Experience an unforgettable night filled with...

FABER Celebrates Cullinary Excellence and wins Prestigious Award

FABER continues to make waves in the culinary world with a series of prestigious awards and nominations, recognising its unwavering commitment to excellence. We are thrilled to announce that FABER has been selected as a winner in the Culinary Experiences category of...

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Situated in the Western Cape region, on the fynbos slopes of the Klein Drakenstein mountains lies Avondale, Paarl, South Africa – a unique parcel of land we call home. Our family-owned and run wine estate Avondale is committed to the practice of organic, biodynamic,...

Avondale Wine Estate Achieves Full Energy Independence with Cutting-Edge Solar Installation

Avondale proudly announces a significant leap forward in environmental responsibility with the successful implementation of a state-of-the-art solar power plant.

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FABER Restaurant receives the nod from Gourmet Guide and Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards

It has been an exceptional few weeks for FABER Restaurant! Situated on the beautiful Avondale Wine Estate, this award-winning restaurant has once again been heralded as one of the best.  We’ve been plated! The Gourmet Guide is South Africa’s original and respected...

Sustainable Farming – preserving the land’s integrity for future generations

Increasingly, wine farmers are putting sustainability at the heart of what they do – and South Africa is no exception. As far back as 1998, South Africa introduced guidelines on sustainability which is adhered to by over 95% of growers and cellars. Sustainable wine...

Avondale Members Club

Avondale Members Club

Our Avondale Members Club offers exclusive rewards to those who share in the love of our wines. Enjoy bespoke wine releases, special offers, and unique events designed for our loyal friends and family.