Spring heralds a new era for Elgin Ridge Wines

All good things come to an end, but in the case of Elgin Ridge Wines, their successes will continue under the new ownership of Radford Dale Wines.

Marion & Brian Smith

Elgin Ridge is the result of a long-lived dream of co-owners Brian and Marion Smith. The couple sold their successful IT business in London and purchased what was then a neglected apple farm in Elgin in 2007 in order to pursue their dream of making small quantities of authentic wines. The tiny valley, with its unique terroir, natural beauty and undeniable character, captured their hearts – it was the perfect place to turn their dream into reality. Not forgetting one of South Africa’s certified organic wine producers. Marion’s passion for organic wine resulted in the launch of the Biodynamic Organic Association in August 2017, (BOWSA.co.za), whose aim was to act as the reference point for consumers and interested parties as to which wine producers are certified organic and Biodynamic in South Africa and which would uplift and bring credibility to the organic wine industry.

Brian and Marion are heartened that Radford Dale will continue farming the land organically. “It brings joy to my heart that the farm will continue on in the spirit it was created, natural vines producing natural wines expressing the distinctive cool terroir of Elgin,” shared Marion Smith.

Although the farm now has new owners, the Smiths will continue to sell their current stock of bottled Elgin Ridge Wines to ensure their wines are available for both local and export customers.

Since 2007 Brian and Marion have lived, slept and breathed Elgin Ridge, and they are looking forward to their next adventure, which includes travelling and spending time with friends. They will continue to live in South Africa.