At Cape Jaffa Wines, our geographical location is very much central to everything we do here, whether it be work or play. The location of the Mount Benson vineyard was chosen as much for its climatic suitability to viticulture as it was for its proximity to the surf break a few kilometres down the road!
The Mount Benson site is well suited to viticulture due to its proximity to the Great Southern Ocean. Frosts are moderate and there’s an abundance of reliable high-quality ground water; these attributes protect the vineyard from drought and frosts, two of the industry’s major threats. The region is also blessed with the famous terra rossa soil over free-draining limestone. With many plantings approaching 15 years of age, grape quality has increased each year as the vines have matured, and Cape Jaffa Wines continues to draw many local and international grape growers to the region.
In 1993 when Cape Jaffa Wines was first established, 8.25 hectares of vines were planted. The first plantings consisted of 4 hectares of Chardonnay, 2 hectares each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, and a quarter of a hectare of Merlot. The first crop was harvested in 1995.
Cape Jaffa’s second vintage was processed at our modern and innovative winery built in 1997 with a capacity of 1000 tonnes. It was located next to a quaint and rustic cellar door constructed in 1996 out of paddock rock found on the site. A feature of our cellar door is the underground barrel hall visible from the tasting room. Cleverly dug into the side of a limestone ridge, the limestone naturally controls the temperature and humidity of the hall. Not only was this a great example of innovative thinking on behalf of the Hooper family, but it also was a practical way in which they could demonstrate their commitment to creating an environmental sustainable winery.
The Mount Benson wine region is within minutes from the coastal South Australian towns of Robe and Kingston SE, as well as a short drive from Adelaide, Mount Gambier, the Limestone Coast, the Great Ocean Road and much more. Check out Wotif.com for some great deals on last-minute accommodation.
