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Karusa Vineyard & Craft Brewery

Winery Description

Location and History

Karusa, a family-owned estate, is located in the tranquil village of Schoemanshoek, at the foothills of the Swartberg mountains in the Cango Valley near Oudtshoorn. The estate, en route to the famous Cango Caves, is a picturesque stop in the Little Karoo. Managed by a dedicated family team, with Jacques Conradie overseeing wine production, Saretha Conradie managing public relations and the restaurant, and Theo Landman as the estate manager, Karusa offers visitors a unique blend of history, exceptional wines, a relaxed atmosphere, and a deep connection to the natural beauty of the Klein Karoo. Soil types are mainly alluvial (by the river) and culluvial (in the mountain).

Karusa is also a fruit farm. The orchards at Karusa thrive on some of South Africa's oldest soils, benefiting from a unique microclimate that imparts a distinct sense of place to the fruit. Consistent low winter temperatures ensure even budbreak, while minimal frost protects the crops. With quality irrigation, ample sunshine, and careful pruning, the trees grow under optimal conditions, producing healthy, high-quality fruit.

The arid climate allows for minimal chemical use, aligning with Karusa's sustainable farming philosophy that respects local fauna and flora. The estate is adopting holistic, organic, and biological practices to produce healthy fruit while preserving natural resources and the environment.

Wine Tasting

The vineyards at Karusa were meticulously established after thorough soil and climate research. Positioned at 440m to 540m altitude on a south-facing hillside with rocky, well-drained soil, the vineyards are planted with Mediterranean cultivars such as Shiraz, Viognier, Mourvedre, and Grenache Noir, along with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinotage. Karusa is notably the first Klein Karoo winery to plant Mourvedre and Grenache Noir.

Karusa's wines, including their renowned Cap Classique and Mediterranean-style varieties, are crafted by Jacques Conradie, an experienced winemaker with a focus on quality and detail. The estate also features a craft brewery and a recent addition of spirits.

Restaurant

The Victorian-style homestead at Karusa offers a relaxed "Karoo feeling," complemented by the estate’s restaurant, where visitors can enjoy a Karoo lunch paired with a crisp white or rosé wine, all while taking in spectacular mountain views. Menu items include include various pizzas and toasted ciabattas as well as ostrich dishes like ostrich carpaccio salad or an ostrich wrap.

The gift shop offers various handmade and natural products and a variety of condiments with fresh produce from the farm like fresh 100% raw honey, jams, chutneys, cold pressed olive oil, dukkha and atjar.

Accommodation

The fully equipped self-catering cottages at Karusa provide a unique farm stay experience in the Klein Karoo. Nestled amid orchards and vineyards in a safe, enclosed area, these cottages offer a tranquil retreat. Guests can enjoy early morning coffee surrounded by misty mountains and landscapes, savor sundowners while watching the sun set over the valley, or indulge in a midnight picnic under the starry summer skies. The setting is perfect for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tours and Activities

Activities at Karusa include bird watching, picnics, hiking trails and mountain biking.

Contact Details

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