Tanagra
Winery Description
Location and History
Tanagra, a picturesque wine farm near McGregor and part of the Robertson Wine Route and Route 62, offers an immersive experience in wine, accommodation, and agritourism. The farm, named after an ancient wild fig tree that shades the historic homestead and winery, reflects the Khoisan term for a well-shaded place. This serene spot invites visitors to stay in one of its well-appointed guest cottages, explore the farm, and sample handcrafted wines, Grappa, and Eau de Vie produced on-site.
Tanagra was taken over by Robert and Anette Rosenbach in March 2009, fulfilling their long-held dream of living on a South African farm. Originally from the Moselle region in Germany, known for its rich winemaking history, they brought with them a deep love for nature, space, and fine wine. They restored various units on the farm to create a guest farm and established a boutique distillery, blending German expertise with South African resources. Over the years, Tanagra has grown into a thriving farm where ecology and economy harmoniously coexist.
Wine Tasting
The vineyards at Tanagra, over 20 years old and certified as 'Single Vineyards,' are small, low-yield blocks that thrive next to the Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve. Surrounded by wild fynbos and succulent Karoo, these vineyards produce highly aromatic wines that capture the essence of the fynbos-scented terroir at the edge of the Klein Karoo. The winemaking process at Tanagra is traditional and minimalistic, using natural yeasts, whole-berry fermentation, and neutral vessels to retain the distinct character of the wines. The vineyard management emphasizes organic practices, avoiding herbicides and nurturing biodiversity.
Robert's innovative decision to bring a 200-litre still from Germany led to the creation of Tanagra's boutique distillery. The still, a combination of copper pot and stainless steel column, allows for a refined distillation process, resulting in exquisite spirits. Tanagra produces Marc (known as Grappa in Italy and Trester in Germany), Eau de Vie (Fruit Spirit and Hefebrand), and Fruit Liqueur, all crafted with care from the freshest local products. Their motto, 'klein aber fein' (small but exquisite), reflects their commitment to quality over quantity.
Tanagra is open for visits from Monday to Saturday by appointment, though guests are welcome to drop in unannounced if the gate is open. Robert and Anette are always eager to welcome visitors, share the story of Tanagra, and introduce them to the wines and spirits produced on the farm. Their journey of transforming Tanagra into a flourishing and sustainable farm has been an extraordinary experience, filled with learning, meeting remarkable people, and making new friends.
Visitors to Tanagra can indulge in agritourism at its finest by exploring the farm and tasting its products right where they are made. The farm offers a personal and unique wine or grappa tasting experience, where tastings are seen as encounters rather than standardised procedures. The distillery is always intriguing, providing insight into the meticulous process behind Tanagra's handcrafted spirits.
Restaurant
Accommodation
Tanagra offers six self-catering cottages, each providing a unique farm life experience. Four cottages (Garden Cottage, Loft Studio, Bottlebrush, and Gumtree) are located near the main farm, close to the historic homestead and a garden with a swimming pool. The remaining two (Hill Cottage and Faraway) are nestled in the wild fynbos of the surrounding hills, each featuring a private plunge pool. These accommodations invite guests to enjoy the beautiful landscapes, mountain views, and sunsets that characterise the farm.
Tours and Activities