On the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge—aptly named “Heaven and Earth”—just outside Hermanus, lies a destination where wine, nature, and artistry meet in perfect harmony. Welcome to Creation Wines, a pioneering estate that has transformed a wild and windswept slope into one of the most celebrated wine experiences in the world.
More than just a winery, Creation is a story—a sensory journey inspired by soil, sea, and soul. From Ancient Quartzite and decomposed Bokkeveld Shale soils to the nearby Atlantic’s cooling marine breezes, every element here breathes life into the vines and vision into the glass. And at the core of this living canvas is the dynamic partnership between co-founders Carolyn and Jean-Claude (JC) Martin, whose shared passion has elevated Creation to global heights.
Rooted in Terroir, Driven by Vision
The Hemel-en-Aarde region is famed for its terroir—soils dating back more than 590 million years and a cool maritime climate ideal for cultivating noble cultivars like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Yet when Carolyn and JC arrived in 2002, there were no vineyards, no infrastructure—just raw, untouched land. Undeterred, they planted one of South Africa’s first virus-free mother blocks, setting the stage for a new chapter in sustainable winemaking.
JC, a Swiss-trained viticulturist, brought meticulous attention to vine health, while Carolyn—born and bred in the Cape Winelands and part of the renowned Finlayson wine family—infused the estate with creativity, wellness, and a deep respect for nature. Her deep-rooted connection to the industry laid the foundation for a bold, visionary approach. Together, they built an estate rooted in biodiversity, sustainability, and innovation.
A Symphony on the Plate and in the Glass
Today, Creation offers more than wine—it offers a narrative. Their winter seasonal menu, “Celebrating the ‘Culture’ in Agri-CULTURE,” is a curated five-course sensory experience, with each pairing expressing the landscape, climate, and creativity of Hemel-en-Aarde—reflecting the belief that what grows together, goes together.
It begins with “Ocean’s Gift”, where spinach and watercress soup with rosemary tuile is served alongside Creation Sauvignon Blanc Semillon. The wine’s crisp minerality mirrors the freshness of the greens and the clean Atlantic breeze that influences both vine and valley.
Next, “Absolutely Brilliant Chardonnay” pairs the elegant Creation Reserve Chardonnay with your choice of Beetroot Ballotine with cashew cream or B’Bos Trout Ballotine. Accented with fennel and sesame nori crisp, both options bring texture and finesse that complement the wine’s layered complexity and bright acidity.
“Red Velvet” celebrates Creation’s acclaimed Pinot Noir, served with either a rich Springbok Loin with root vegetables and honeybush jus, or a soulful plant-based dish of mushrooms, tofu, chickpeas, and winter greens—a pairing that draws out the wine’s silky depth and earthy elegance.
These are just a few highlights from a thoughtfully layered menu—each telling its own seasonal story through food and wine. Each element of the experience is intentional: from mostly plant-based, locally sourced ingredients to thoughtfully selected Riedel glassware. “We want guests to reconnect with nature—on the plate, in the glass, and within themselves.”
Award-Winning Excellence, Global Recognition
In 2024 Creation received the prestigious V d’Or award for Best Brand Experience in Paris—recognizing not just their wines, but the immersive, thoughtful nature of their entire guest journey. Dubbed the “Oscars of Wine,” the award honours innovation, authenticity, and a commitment to community. Creation was also ranked #3 on the World’s Best Vineyards list and was Africa’s top entry.
Nature, Art, and the Rhythm of the Land
What sets Creation apart is its deep reverence for the environment. From marine breezes and rich fynbos to trails that wind through vineyards alive with bees, birds, and blossoms, the estate offers visitors an unfiltered connection to the land.
Art plays a subtle but powerful role in the experience—from installations in the tasting room to a locally produced short film that weaves food, wine, music, and dance into a celebration of culture.
“Our wines are born from nature, nature is the great healer and the inspiration and innovation that is Creation. We want our guests to feel a deep connection to nature, as it is our first home.”
Growing Wines, Growing People
Beyond the vineyard, one of Creation’s greatest strengths lies in its people. The estate has built a dedicated, skilled team—who are trained not only in viticulture and winemaking but also in hospitality, sensory service, and wellness. This investment in people has created a culture of excellence that runs through every part of the experience, from vineyard to table.
Creation’s long-standing partnership with the Pebbles Hemel-en-Aarde Project further deepens this commitment, offering children access to education and nutritional support, and opening pathways into careers within the estate. Many young people have grown through the ranks—from vineyard work to the cellar, tasting room, and even management.
At Creation, nothing is accidental—from the vines to the spices on the plate, from the brush of a guinea fowl feather to the story behind each pour. Whether sipping Pinot Noir or enjoying a warm Olive Elixir Tonic before your first course, you’ll feel grounded, inspired, and transformed.
This isn’t just a wine tasting—it’s a return to nature, a celebration of culture, and a journey worth making.
For more information contact (028) 212 1107 or visit www.creationwines.com
