A Fistful of Schist Reserve Shiraz-Cinsaut-Mourvèdre, Swartland 2023

Riebeek Cellars is a co-operative cellar comprising some 40 members on the outskirts of the charming town of Riebeek Kasteel in the Cape's long-established (and now trendy) Swartland region.

First established in 1941, it celebrated 75 years of winemaking in 2016. Riebeek produces a wide range of wines and wine styles, often from older bush vines which deliver greater complexity at very modest prices, including our A Fistful of Schist range which is made here for us. Riebeek is open for tastings and sales, and cellar tours can be arranged by appointment.

Environmental sustainability
Riebeek’s focus is on bush vines, which are not trellised and have adapted to the dry growing conditions of the Swartland. As such, Riebeek can minimise, and in some cases eliminate, the need for irrigation in an area where water stress can be a concern. They are certified by the Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) scheme, a South African initiative that aims to decrease chemical intervention and improve waste management throughout the industry. The winery is also a member of the WWF’s Biodiversity in Wine Initiative (BWI), which underlines its commitment to protecting local flora and fauna, and adopting better and healtheir farming practices.

Social sustainability
Riebeek is also accredited to WIETA, which is a leading standard focused on good social and human rights practice. Producers with whom they work must also be certified.