History

L'Ormarins received its name from its original owner, French Huguenot Jean Roi. When a prime portion of the Franschhoek Valley was granted to him in 1694, he named it after his hometown Lourmarins in French Provence.

On land earmarked specifically for wine production, Jean Roi immediately started cultivating the slopes of the surrounding Groot Drakenstein mountains in preparation of planting the first vineyards. Soon L'Ormarins was a respected landmark in the Cape winelands, boasting 4 000 well-established vines and gracing the Franschhoek Valley with its elegant manor house and outbuildings.

A new era of pioneering started 275 years later, when L'Ormarins, owned today by Mr Johann Rupert, was acquired by the Rupert family. Since then, L'Ormarins saw extensive renovations under the supervision of the late Mr Anthonij Rupert, former owner of L'Ormarins. The homestead and cellar — dating back to 1811 and 1799 respectively — were completely restored to their original Huguenot splendour in 1984 and have both been declared national monuments.

Wine Production

On the production side, too, L'Ormarins underwent a metamorphosis. True to his future vision, Anthonij launched a major redevelopment programme. His single objective was to set new standards in world-class wines. He was the first producer to use small French oak vats for both red and white wines after replacing the remaining fruit orchards with new, noble wine varietals.

Only noble cultivars are produced - Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon - complemented by a classical Claret blend branded as Optima.

Vines are grown mainly in terraced vineyards on a variety of slopes and at varying altitudes, creating conditions that favour a distinct diversity in grape properties and lend a unique character to L'Ormarins wines.

The first wines made from the new varietals were an instant success and made a major contribution towards L'Ormarins being the lengendary wine producer that it is today. Under the leadership of Hein Koegelenberg, Managing Director of L'Ormarins and Johann Rupert's brother-in-law, L'Ormarins is the actualisation of Anthonij's vision, sustained and extended today by both Hein and Johann.

Visit

L'Ormarins invites wine lovers to experience a rewarding blend of natural beauty and the finest wines. Relax in our tasting room, while sampling our noble products, acclaimed the world over.

During the summer high season, we offer visitors an opportunity to linger-longer in the peaceful country atmosphere by indulging in our Mediterranean-style delicatessen situated adjacent to the tasting centre, next to the poolside, where you can purchase a variety of breads, cheeses, patês and much more while savouring our award-winning wines.

As much as our wines will please you, you will be overwhelmed by magnificent mountain scenes and the charm of historic buildings restored to their original Huguenot splendour of 1694.