Dalkeith is the result of a unique collaboration between two of South Africa’s most respected wine personalities: Graham Weerts and Adi Badenhorst. While Graham is best known for his work with Capensis and Jackson Family Wines, Adi has become one of the defining figures of the Swartland revolution. Together, they share a passion for old vineyards, authentic terroir expression and wines that reflect the rugged beauty of the Cape.
The fruit for Dalkeith is sourced from carefully selected vineyards in the Swartland, one of South Africa’s most exciting wine regions. Here, old bush vines grow in ancient granite and shale soils under warm, dry conditions. These vineyards are largely dry-farmed, forcing the vines to root deeply and naturally limiting yields. The result is fruit with remarkable concentration, energy and character.
Dalkeith focuses on varieties that have become synonymous with the Swartland, particularly Chenin Blanc and Rhône varieties. The philosophy is simple: preserve the integrity of the vineyard and intervene as little as possible in the cellar.
Fermentations are carried out using indigenous yeasts, allowing each site to express its natural character. Ageing typically takes place in older French oak barrels and larger oak vessels, where the wines gain texture and complexity without overt oak influence. The emphasis is always on balance, freshness and transparency.
The wines combine the richness of old-vine fruit with remarkable precision and restraint. They show layers of citrus, stone fruit and subtle spice, supported by a mineral backbone and vibrant natural acidity. Dalkeith captures the essence of the Swartland: expressive, characterful and deeply connected to its place of origin.
