Travel into the rather undiscovered Hemel-en-Aarde valley in the Overberg, where high up on a ridge and at the end of a long dirt road, is a piece of paradise that combines the rich gifts of nature and unique terroir. Here the dedicated team of Creation has worked tirelessly to create their award-winning wines. In combining the rich gifts of nature and their unique soil properties with the considerable skills of a dedicated team.
When in 2002 Jean-Claude and Carolyn Martin took up the challenge of establishing a winery in a remote corner of the Walker Bay Region they did so with the courage of their conviction. The 40 hectares of undulating land on the lofty Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge had never been planted to vines, but recognizing the potential they set out with tenacity and determination to transform it into a model wine farm.
No easy feat, but then the Swiss-born JC and South African-born Carolyn née Finlayson, both come from wine pioneering stock spanning at least three generations and two continents and they could not be deterred. Since they have established a sought after destination with wines of great distinction and achievement, where their generosity of spirit is tasted in the results.
The winemaking team places great emphasis on working in symbiosis with Mother Nature, their sustainability and eco-practices are admirable, their philosophy and gentle considered approach to the land, admirable. There are owl posts in the vineyards and you may even spot a friendly fly-catcher chameleon living in one of the orchards in the restaurant. Creation is one of only nine wineries in South Africa to have received the coveted EnviroWines accreditation, something they pride themselves in.
Enjoy a food and wine pairing and be introduced to the subtle secrets of flavour and texture and how the inherent qualities of wine and food can combine to create the ultimate taste sensation. To demonstrate the huge impact that food and wine have on each other, a delicious array of canapés, each specially prepared by Creation’s talented chefs to match a specific wine, is on offer.
It’s easy to understand why this combined with the relaxed elegance and ambiance of Creation draws people back to try the varied offerings. Oh, and the views of course.
Where: Hemel and Aarde Road, outside Hermanus
Our Sommelier’s recommendation: Art Chardonnay & Pinot Noir
