Ridgeback

Ridgeback winery is situated on the northern slopes of the Paarl Mountains, this quiet corner of Paarl provides ideal growing conditions for the vineyards which give our premium brand Ridgeback and second label Vansha their distinctive characteristic flavours.

The farm surrounded by Granite hills looks over the panoramic scenery of the Limietberg Mountains. The terrain, abundant with natural fynbos provides ideal soil and drainage for the growth of the vineyards especially that of the red grape varieties. 
 
Our distinctive wines reflect the character and individuality of the Rhodesian Ridgeback dog - the hallmark of our brand. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is native to South Africa. Its history can be traced to the Cape Colony of Southern Africa where the early pioneers used them for lion hunting.

The vineyards include the following red varieties - Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet, Cabernet Franc, Mourvèdre, Petit Verdot and Grenache; the white varieties include Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier.

The farm, initially purchased as a fruit farm converted to vineyards in 1997 and our first vintage of Vansha Sauvignon Blanc was produced in 2000 and in 2001 Ridgeback Shiraz, which was awarded five stars in the John Platter.