This venture was a pioneering collaboration between acclaimed Burgundian winemaker Paul Bouchard and innovative local winemaker Peter Finlayson, sharing a passion for Pinot Noir. In 2000, the Tollman family acquired the estate, bringing their expertise in international hospitality. As a family-owned boutique wine estate, at Bouchard Finlayson a shared passion for heritage, integrity and innovation guides them in crafting world-class wines that showcase the terroir of the Hemel-en-Aarde valley.

The estate’s 25 hectares of vineyards were carefully planned and cultivated following Burgundian wine making principles, expressing the valley’s cool maritime climate and unique coastal terroir. The 125 hectare estate is surrounded by a 100-hectare conservancy dedicated to preserving the endemic fynbos of the Cape Floral Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bouchard Finlayson is both a family affair, and a place of collaboration. A labour of love that sees the marriage of Old World winemaking heritage with New World innovation. Over more than three decades, Bouchard Finlayson has earned a global reputation for crafting memorable wines that speak to a sense of place. Bouchard Finlayson thrives on collaboration and teamwork, with a dedicated staff that includes many long-term employees.

While inspired by the winemaking traditions of Burgundy, Bouchard Finlayson keeps a keen eye on the future. Under winemaker Chris Albrecht the cellar is in a process of constant evolution, as they refine their viticultural and cellar practices to ensure Bouchard Finlayson stays at the forefront of premium wine production in South Africa and the spirit of collaboration that founded the estate continues to this day.

In contrast to the homely charm of the cellar, the clean lines and minimalism of the production cellar reflect the winemaking team’s relentless pursuit of quality. Every step of the process occurs on-site, from meticulously sorting fruit at harvest time through to fermentation, ageing, bottling, and distribution. This space, where tradition meets innovation, embodies the ongoing evolution of Bouchard Finlayson. Various pairings are available in the tasting room.