Delheim Wine Estate, a pioneering force in conservation and sustainability, has once again taken a bold step in protecting South Africa’s rich biodiversity. Their latest initiative, the Fynbos Vineyard Pilot Project, is a groundbreaking integration of indigenous fynbos species with vineyard operations. This project, funded by WWF South Africa, ensures that Delheim’s renowned wines flourish alongside the critically endangered fynbos biome.
Preserving a Global Biodiversity Hotspot
Located in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, Delheim has long been committed to safeguarding one of the most diverse floristic regions in the world. With nearly 70% of its plant species found nowhere else on Earth, this region is a biodiversity treasure.
Delheim is home to highly-threatened renosterveld vegetation and endangered fynbos species, such as Boland Granite Fynbos, Grootsteekhaarbos, Bobbejaantie, Green Tree-pincushion, and Green Sugarbush protea. With only 5% of the original renosterveld remaining intact, Delheim’s conservation work is more critical than ever.
Wine Meets Conservation: The Fynbos Vineyard Pilot Project
Recognised as a WWF Conservation Champion, Delheim’s sustainable farming practices include no-till farming, cover cropping, water recycling, and invasive vegetation clearing. Their latest conservation effort, the Fynbos Vineyard Pilot Project, introduces 10% fynbos corridors between vineyards annually to restore indigenous vegetation and enhance vineyard health.
By integrating fynbos within the vineyard, Delheim fosters a healthy ecosystem, promoting pollinators, birds, and beneficial predator insects, while enriching soil fertility. “The more natural the vineyard environment, the healthier and more expressive the grapes,” says Corlia Erasmus, Farm Manager at Delheim.
Bringing Nature to the Guests
Delheim believes in making conservation accessible and interactive. Visitors can experience this initiative firsthand through guided vineyard walks, fynbos wine pairings, and conservation activities.
Their fynbos-inspired events include the popular Fynbos Cupcake and Wine Pairing, and the Delheim Fynbos Botanical Tasting, which explores indigenous renosterveld flavours in collaboration with Giselle Courtney of Cape Town Fynbos Experience®.
“This initiative brings the fynbos experience to people in an authentic way,” says Nora Thiel from Delheim. “By allowing visitors to engage with fynbos up close, we hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the Cape Floral Kingdom and encourage conservation efforts.”
With a strong commitment to sustainability, Delheim’s efforts serve as a model for the balance between agriculture and conservation. Visit Delheim to experience the harmony of fine wine and fynbos in one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.
