List of products by brand Journey's End Wines
No more than 15,000 dozen bottles of Estate Wine are produced in a typical vintage – with many of these wines regularly collecting Trophies on the International circuit. With its sea-facing slopes and excellent soils, the Schaapenberg terroir has begun to draw comparison with Bordeaux, with some exceptional wines emerging from the area.
In 1995 the Gabb family (originally from Shropshire, UK) purchased this picturesque farm and the surrounding 20ha of vines. They have invested heavily in both the vineyards and the winery since then – with the state growing to 120ha by July 2011. The family philosophy is one of minimum intervention. Their aim is to create top-quality single-vineyard and appellation wines that are intricate, integrated and true to the terroir of the vineyards and climatic benefits of the region. They are entirely committed to being environmentally sustainable and socially responsible.
The initial Journeys End investment was made by Roger Gabb, the founder and Managing Director of Western Wines. Western Wines quickly became the largest exporter of South African wine with a 40% share of exports from 1998 – 2006. Brands such as Kumala, Cono Sur (Chile) and MGM (Italy) all fell under the Western Wines stable.
Following the sale of Western Wines to Constellation brands in 2006, the family turned their focus on their estate, Journeys End. Roger’s Gabb son Rollo has further invested in vineyard purchases and infrastructure, since taking over the helm in 2007.
In February 2010, Journey’s End completed work on a brand new state of the art 350 ton crush winery, set at the heart of the beautiful Journey’s End vineyards, with a stunning tasting room and spacious terrace looking out to the nearby coast. At the same time as completing the new winery, Journey’s End successfully acquired neighbouring Mount Rozier Estate, including 45ha of prime, south-facing vineyard. This expansion follows successful growth for Journey’s End in the UK as well as the Scandinavian and Asian markets.
This purchase also includes a fantastic, fully operational Equestrian centre offering visitors wonderful treks through the Journey’s End vineyards and neighbouring estates. And from spring 2010 two charming guest cottages nestling on the estate, became available for holiday lets. Situated just 25 minutes from Capetown airport, Journey’s End is an ideal retreat for visitors to enjoy wine-tasting, touring the winery with winemaker Leon, trekking and walking, all in a glorious setting.
