
Kaapzicht isn’t just a name in the South African wine world; it’s a family story that’s been growing and evolving for generations in the Bottelary Hills. The Steytler family has been at the helm of this journey, with Danie Steytler Jr. now leading the way, continuing the family tradition of excellence. Their premium wines, produced only in exceptional years, carry the family name and their dedication to the quality of Kaapzicht. Of this range, the three reds have only made it to the bottle 5 times in the last decade, with the family ensuring only extraordinary vintages find themselves in a bottle.
Kaapzicht means family to me. It’s the Bottelary Hills’ unique terroir, the bold flavours of Pinotage and Chenin Blanc, and the warmth of a South African braai. These elements come together in every bottle. Among their range, the 1947 Chenin Blanc stands out. It comes from one of the oldest Chenin Blanc vineyards in the country, planted by Danie Jr.’s great-grandfather, and brings an expression you can only find in vines of this age. Initially covering 6 hectares, only 1.1 hectares of the very low yielding vineyard remain, producing a richer wine with a higher residual sugar than previous vintages that brought more salinity and freshness. The 2023 vintage, thanks to dedicated regenerative efforts and support from the Old Vine Project, yielded over 4,000 bottles – seeing its largest production yet. A mix of amphora and old barrel ageing for ten months gives this precious old vine wine its notes of French honeyed water, jasmine, white peach, and naartjie peel. It’s a wine that balances generosity with focus. A wine of great depth, decadence with a new world precision.
The Steytler Reds are wines known for the opulence – Danie Steytler Jr. has managed to maintain this feel with a slighter hand of oak – producing wines which are a bit leaner and perfect for the new generation of drinkers who prefer lighter, more immediate enjoyment over long term cellaring.
Steytler Pinotage 2021
“Patriotism is a personal conviction. “Steytler Pinotage” is our patriotic devotion to the trials and tribulations of mastering Pinotage since its earlies beginnings right here in the Bottelary Hills. As this is South Africa’s only truly original grape, we are fixated on flaunting its finesse to the world. With this wine we pay homage to George Steytler who farmed Kaapzicht for 33 years.”

Pinotage first took root in Bottelary, mere steps from Kaapzicht, with George Steytler Sr. soon after introducing it to the family farm —a bold move at the time. The 2021 Pinotage, produced under the guidance of Danie Jr., is perhaps the lightest expression of this heritage grape under the Steytler label – further cementing the legacy that Pinotage, Kaapzicht and a South African braai are synonymous. This wine epitomises that relationship; it makes you just want to grab a lamb chop straight off the griddles of the braai and enjoy it alongside this rich wine, that is brimming with rose petals, inky dark fruits, and earthy smoky undertones, all wrapped in elegant, silky tannins.

Steytler Vision 2021
This Cape Red is a 56% Pinotage led blend with Cabernet Sauvignon in support and a dash of Merlot to bring it all together – a fantastic example of Danie Steytler’s ability to bring the perfect blend to life. Funnily enough the distinct qualities of Cabernet Sauvignon dominate the aromas despite Pinotage leading the blend. It’s a powerful and opulent wine, with the 2021 being awarded the Best Red in the World by Decanter Magazine, highlighting its distinguished appeal.

Steytler Pentagon 2021
A four-way Bordeaux-style blend, with the recent departure of Malbec, and led by Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine boasts beautiful ripe fruit tannins that roll off the tongue, adhering to old-world principles while being more approachable to modern palates – once again Danie Jnr demonstrates his ability to find an exceptional balance.

Each of these wines captures what the Steytlers are all about, truly forming the very foundation of their family legacy that South Africa has come to appreciate. I really do believe that the range is not just made up of wines, but of the family’s dedication, the unique terroir of Bottelary Hills, and the traditions that have been passed down through generations of the Steytler family.
And it is true that in every bottle of Kaapzicht Steytler Wine, you can taste the history, the people, and the meticulous craftsmanship that place these wines in an exceptional realm – thank you for sharing them with me.
All of the above wines are available at the retail price of R740 – a steal if you ask me.
You can find more about the farm, the family, and the wines here and for any further enquiries contact Angela on angela@kaapzicht.co.za
