Peter Bayly

Winery Description

Location and History

Follow the road out of town into the scenic Groenfontein Valley, where a gravel road winds along Nel’s River. The farm can be found about 15 kilometers outside Calitzdorp.Peter and Yvonne Bayly ventured into this secluded valley over a decade ago to fulfil their lifelong dream of producing artisanal wines and “live free-range” in one of South-Africa’s most remote areas. With the majestic Swartberg backdrop, their meticulously tended 1.5 hectares of Touriga Naçional, Tinta Barroca and Souzão grow amidst shale and quartz. These Portuguese varietals, planted by the Baylys in 2000, aim to create exceptional Cape Port and distinctive Klein Karoo red wines.

Although Groenfontein lies deep within the semi-arid Klein Karoo, it enjoys abundant water, with cold winters and mild summers. The vineyard’s row direction and proximity of the vineyard to the hillside ensure it is shaded from two o’clock onwards. These conditions result in low-yielding vines and a more extended ripening period, which results in fruit with intense colour and flavour complexity. The exceptional fruit quality and artisanal wine-making techniques, including natural fermentation in lagares (traditional Portuguese open-fermentation vessels) and maturation in French oak barrels, result in limited quantities of distinctive handcrafted premium wines.

1/1

Wine Tasting

Peter Bayly’s wines include a Cape Vintage Port, Cape White Port and a red blend named III (three). The 2017 Cape Vintage Port totals 1200 half-bottles, equivalent to eight barrels. The dry Cape White Port blends vintages from 2007 to 2022, using 100% Chenin Blanc from the fertile soils of the Calitzdorp Valley. Only 1300 bottles were produced using artisanal techniques.

III blends three Portuguese grape varieties, Touringa Nacional, Tinta Barroca and Souzao. This unique blend was born out of curiosity, and this is the first time anyone has tried to blend these varieties as a table wine in South Africa. The III is unique because the vineyard is located high up in the foothills of the Swartberg and planted on shale with very little topsoil; the vines struggle to find water nutrients. The unique location allows for a long, slow ripening season, resulting in concentrated fruit and an elegant wine with low alcohol, good acidity, and superb structure that accompanies hearty dishes.

A visit to Peter Bayly’s is a personal and unique experience. It is the adventurer’s dream, as the farm is truly off the beaten track, and the road to get there is spectacular. Tasting is done with Peter and Yvonne. Leashed dogs are welcome as they have animals of their own. Although they are open Monday to Sunday, it is best to call ahead to ensure they are home.