Situated amongst the fynbos and proteas of a serene Boland valley lies Druk-My-Niet, Paarl’s renowned boutique wine farm. With a history as rich as its wines, this 24-hectare estate was originally part of a larger farm acquired in 1692 by French Huguenot Francois du Toit, the first to navigate the daunting Drakenstein Mountains, giving the famous Du Toitskloof Pass its name.
Meaning “don’t squeeze me” or “don’t patronise me” as the story goes when the original owner’s daughter got married to a man he didn’t really like much and the son-in-law inherited this piece of the estate as a dowry. Unimpressed by its modest size, squeezed between larger neighboring estates, he named it Druk-My-Niet. Since then the name hasn’t changed due to its heritage. The estate was purchased 2002 by Dorothee and the late Georg Kirchner, a German couple with a vision to transform the farm into a premier wine producer. It was previously a fruit farm with over 1000 guava trees.
The Kirchners meticulously restored the historic buildings and replanted vineyards, which now offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. A devastating fire in 2017 destroyed several historic structures and a significant portion of the vineyards. The couple chose to rebuild, investing in state-of-the-art technology for the new cellar and replanting the vineyards, ensuring Druk-My-Niet’s legacy as a producer of premium wines endures.
Abraham de Klerk, the estate’s first winemaker, sought to enhance the farm’s charm and uniqueness by planting uncommon cultivars like Tempranillo, Tannat and Tinta Amarella.
Wines Tasted:
T3 Cap Classique Rosé
T3 refers to the three components Tempranillo, Tannat and Tinta Amarella. This Cap Classique Rosé offers a delightful interplay of elegance and vibrancy. On the nose, expect delicate aromas of red berries, rose petals and a hint of citrus zest. The palate reveals a refreshing burst of strawberry and raspberry, complemented by a subtle creaminess and fine bubbles that dance gracefully on the tongue. A touch of minerality adds depth, leading to a crisp, dry finish.
T3 Rosé
This distinctive rosé offers a fragrant bouquet of strawberries, cherries and delicate floral notes. On the palate it’s crisp and refreshing, revealing flavours of ripe raspberry and a hint of spice, balanced by lively acidity. The finish is smooth and dry, with lingering bright fruit and a subtle touch of minerality.
C68 Chenin Blanc
The only white wine under their portfolio. This Chenin Blanc is made from an old-vine Chenin Blanc vineyard planted in 1968. Beautiful aromas greet you of pear, pineapple and a hint of honeycomb. On the palate, it offers layers of fresh citrus, green apple and a subtle touch of almond, all balanced by a vibrant acidity. The finish is long and elegant, with a lingering minerality that reflects the vineyard’s heritage and character.
T3 Mediterranean Blend
This is a beautiful winter wine that offers a bold and complex profile. On the nose, rich aromas of dark cherry, blackberry and hints of earthy spice are complemented by subtle notes of leather and tobacco. The palate is robust and layered, with flavours of ripe plum, blackcurrant and a touch of dark chocolate, supported by firm tannins and a well-integrated acidity.
Druk My Niet Cabernet Franc 2019
This wine exudes elegance and depth. On the nose, you’ll discover inviting aromas of black cherry, plum and a hint of green pepper, intertwined with subtle floral and earthy notes. The palate is rich and smooth, revealing layers of dark berries and a touch of eucalyptus, all balanced by well-structured tannins and a vibrant acidity. The finish is long and refined, leaving a lasting impression of spice, dark fruit and a whisper of oak.
Druk My Niet Malbec 2018
This wine offers inviting aromas of ripe blackberries, dark cherries and hints of cocoa. On the palate, it’s full-bodied with flavours of juicy black plums, blueberries and a touch of black pepper. The tannins are smooth and well-integrated, giving the wine a balanced and velvety texture. Subtle notes of oak and a hint of spice add complexity, leading to a long, satisfying finish with a touch of earthy undertones.
Invictus Bordeaux Blend
This blend combines Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The name, meaning “unconquerable” in Latin, reflects the wine’s robust character. It presents aromas of black fruit and spices, with a taste of fresh red fruits and a touch of chalky tannins. The blend is rich and well-structured, offering a balanced and lasting finish.
Mirus Syrah
Mirus Syrah aptly named from the Latin for “wonderful” or “extraordinary,” presents a deep, inky-purple hue with a smooth, velvety tannic core. Its palate unfolds with complex aromas of cured meats and white pepper, harmoniously interwoven with vibrant red fruits. The result is a richly textured and elegant wine, showcasing a remarkable balance and depth.
Accommodation
The estate offers three charming self-catering cottages, each set amidst lush vineyards and surrounded by the majestic Paarl Valley.
Protea Cottage is a cosy retreat designed for two, featuring a spacious private en-suite bathroom. Guava Cottage with its two bedrooms and two bathrooms, comfortably accommodates up to four guests. For larger groups, Fynbos Cottage is the estate’s largest option, offering three double rooms with en-suite bathrooms and sleeping up to six people.
Each cottage is fully equipped with modern amenities, including an open-plan kitchen, a fireplace and a private patio with a braai area. Guests can unwind while taking in the stunning views of the Klein Drakenstein Mountains, the estate and the whole of Paarl, all while enjoying a refreshing swim in the pool. It’s the perfect setting to relax and enjoying some exceptional wines while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
We had a truly memorable stay, enjoying the warmth of the fireplace and the company of Dorothee, the owner, who guided us through their range of wines. Her two furry companions added an extra layer of charm to the experience. The ambiance was cosy and inviting, making our time together both memorable and enjoyable.
Contact Details:
Tel: 021 868 2393 | Email: info@dmnwines.co.za
Categories: Druk My Niet Wine Estate
