Backsberg Family Wines

Backsberg's story begins in 1902, when Charles Louis Back arrived in South Africa as a penniless Jewish refugee from Lithuania. He worked his way into farming and eventually acquired a property on the slopes of the Simonsberg mountain near Paarl. His son Sydney took over in 1942 and built the estate's reputation as a quality producer. Sydney's son Michael joined in 1976 and transformed Backsberg into one of South Africa's most progressive wine estates, championing environmental stewardship long before sustainability became an industry buzzword. Today, fourth-generation Simon Back serves as CEO, continuing over a century of family ownership.

In 2006, Backsberg became South Africa's first certified carbon neutral winery -- and only the third winery in the world to achieve this status. The estate's environmental programme encompasses tree planting, solar energy, water recycling, alternative fuels, and meticulous carbon auditing. Over ten percent of the farm's land has been set aside for the conservation of indigenous fynbos, earning Backsberg the status of WWF Conservation Champion. The estate also holds IPW and WIETA accreditations.

Winemaker Alicia Rechner leads the cellar team, supported by viticulturist Clive Trent. Their philosophy centres on soil health and gentle grape handling to preserve the fruit character of each cultivar. The Paarl-Simonsberg terroir provides warm days and cool nights that suit a broad range of varieties, from Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage to Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc. The wine portfolio spans several tiers: the flagship Patriarch range, premium single-vineyard bottlings like Pumphouse Shiraz and Four Pillars Cabernet Sauvignon, the John Martin blend, and the accessible Hillside and Gravel Road labels. Backsberg also produces a Kosher range under the Sydney Back and Unorthodox labels, along with the Sydney Back potstill brandy.

The visitor experience includes wine tasting in the cellar door tasting room, a restaurant serving contemporary fare with vineyard views, picnic options, and a deli. The estate welcomes families and offers cycling, garden walks, and private tutored tastings. Backsberg is a member of the Paarl Wine Route and its Dineplan-integrated booking system makes reservations simple. A wine club provides members with exclusive releases and discounts.