Exploring Swartland and the Excellence of Mullineux

Established in 2007, Mullineux Wines emerged as a beacon of excellence in the South African wine landscape. Founded by Chris and Andrea Mullineux, the estate quickly made its mark with a commitment to quality and sustainability.

The Essence of Swartland

Nestled within the Swartland wine region, Mullineux finds its home at Roundstone Farm. The name “Swartland” — translating to “black land” — originated with Dutch settler Jan van Riebeeck in the 1650s. The region’s soil, darkened by winter rains, earned it this evocative title.

At Roundstone Farm, the vineyards are nurtured with care. This holistic approach encompasses crop rotation, minimal tillage, composting, and a complete avoidance of chemical pesticides and fertilisers. The vineyards are farmed organically and are in conversion to becoming certified Regenerative Organic.

Artistry in Winemaking

Andrea Mullineux focuses on dry-farmed Mediterranean varieties, particularly Chenin Blanc and Syrah. Her philosophy centres on crafting wines that reflect their terroir with minimal intervention.

“We try to make our wines as naturally as possible, but they are not natural.” This commitment to authenticity resonates in every bottle, showcasing the unique essence of Swartland.

A Legacy of Accolades

Andrea was honoured as Wine Enthusiast’s International Winemaker of the Year in 2016. Both Chris and Andrea were named Tim Atkin’s South African Winemakers of the Year in the same year.

Visiting

The Mullineux tasting room in Franschhoek sits adjacent to La Petite Colombe, open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Booking ahead is recommended. A visit here is one of the highlights of the MyWineTour Franschhoek experience.