Haut Espoir Wine Estate

About Haut Espoir Wine Estate

Haut Espoir or “High Hope”, is a family owned vineyard with parents, kids and extended family all playing a part in the operations on the farm. Positioned on the slopes of the Groot Drakenstein Mountains, this 23 hectare farm was acquired by Heinrich Muller in 1692 and formed part of grazing land. The Armstrong family then bought part of the Mountain Manor Hotel with the intention to retire, but succeeded in developing vineyards and a boutique wine estate.

Haut Espoir is said to be one of the most environmentally conscious wineries in the Franschhoek Valley and recently commissioned an artificial / constructed wetland to treat cellar effluent. The estate commits to the Biodiversity and Wine Initiative (BWI), a partnership between the country's wine industry and conservation sector which encourages wine producers to farm sustainably and express the advantages of the Cape's abundant diversity in their wines.

Their vintage list is generally a few years older than what is the norm for South African wine and their vineyards are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Enjoy the wonders that Chef Pierre Hendricks creates with food in the converted house which is Le Bon Vivant Restaurant. Dine in the garden or indoors for a quiet, romantic evening. Choose from smaller courses perfect for tasting or a-la-carte menu.

To view more wine estates in the region see Franschhoek Wine Estates or see South Africa Wine Estates for a general overview and links to other wine producing regions.