Glen Carlou – A Success Story From Paarl

Founded in 1985, the comparatively young Glen Carlou winery has acquired an excellent reputation and nowadays belongs to the leading producers in South Africa. The basis for that was laid by Walter Finlayson when he decided to purchase the back-then unused Glen Carlou farm at the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountain including 145 hectares of land. Plenty of hard work and investments set the course for the start of the first red and white wine production in 1988 – it hence took only three years until the first wines were produced. Seven years later, the Swiss entrepreneur Donald Hess purchased some shares of the South African winery and fully managed it with the Hess Group from 2003 until 2016. Now, the new owner Wayne Pitout with his technology company Pactolus Consortium continues the success story of Glen Carlou.

Great Continuity in the Heart of Paarl

Located in the heart of the Winelands of Paarl, Glen Carlou harvests the grapes for the excellent quality wines on 58 hectares on the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountain. The prevailing climate is Mediterranean with warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters. Furthermore, a varied hill landscape with slate and clay soils offer excellent conditions for the cultivated vines. With plenty of dedication, expertise, outstanding care and continuity, great wines are created that mirror their unique terroir. Continuity is also apparent when it comes to the staff: Johnnie Calitz is only the fourth winemaker in Glen Carlou’s history. His mission is to create elegant and unique wines – and you can taste this with every bottle of the Classic and the Prestige Collection.

Art and Culinary Delicacies In Front Of Breathtaking Nature

Besides the excellent bottles, there is plenty to discover at Glen Carlou, for example an art gallery with modern pieces from South African artists or a Zen garden with a calm atmosphere in which you can enjoy the native nature. Not only the plant species of the South African fynbos find a home here, but also numerous types of birds. Speaking of nature: sustainability is very important for Glen Carlou. The winery is a member of the Biodiversity & Wine Initiative and continually works on reducing its carbon footprint. The breathtaking landscape can also wonderfully be enjoyed from the terrace of the excellent restaurant with its innovative and seasonal cuisine.