Growing an environmental conscience at De Wetshof Estate | #wineforgood

Johann and Peter de Wet, third generation owners of De Wetshof Estate in Robertson, didn't acquire an approach to sustainability on their family farm, they were born with it.

Danie de Wet, who made De Wetshof the first wine estate in the Robertson Valley, inherited an ethos of conservation from his father, who bought De Wetshof in 1949.

A philosophy of respect

Since taking ownership of the farm known as De Wetshof, three generations of the De Wet family have realised their responsibilities as custodians of a unique natural environment.

Not only because respect for and appreciation of the natural surroundings is unavoidable in these surroundings, but also because of our philosophy that the production of good wines is totally dependent on respect for the entire environment within which the vineyards are farmed and the wine is made. The latter two reasons for us being here as wine farmers would not be possible without us ensuring that plant and animal life, as well as the soils and water supplies are managed in accordance with detailed and planned environmental practices to ensure a symbiotic relationship between De Wetshof commercial endeavours and the need for conserving what we have inherited from nature.

Large parts of De Wetshof have thus been set-out solely for conservation of the local fauna and flora.

Along the river-bank as well as sets of deep ravines carved into the mountain behind De Wetshof, grey buck, duikers, hares, porcupines, snakes, mongooses, meerkats, otters, and lynx still roam. Recently the Robertson Birding Club counted 92 species in the region in one day. This astonishing diversity includes the Giant and Malachite Kingfishers, Peregrine Falcon, African Fish Eagle, Black Eagle, Paradise Flycatcher and Forktailed Drongo.

Fencing plays a big role in the management of the wildlife to ensure De Wetshof’s animals are kept within the boundaries of the property, while excluding other species of animals newly introduced into the Robertson region and which could upset the ecological balance. Fences are thus regularly maintained and repaired to ensure the harmony is maintained and not disturbed by an unwanted alien whose habits have the potential of destroying the current natural harmony.

The building of roads and tracks through De Wetshof’s property has been kept to the minimum so as to ensure the wildlife is left undisturbed and in peace.

To create an accommodating environment for the wildlife, De Wetshof has also over the past years embarked on a rigorous programme of removing alien vegetation, especially from next to the river, and planting indigenous Yellow-woods as well as thorn-trees.