Meinert Wines

On a quiet stretch of the Devon Valley, tucked between the granite slopes that define this corner of Stellenbosch, Martin Meinert has been making wine on his own terms since 1987. The son of a Namibian printing and publishing family, Meinert graduated near the top of his class in Viticulture and Oenology from Stellenbosch University in 1984. His first role was as assistant winemaker at Simonsig Estate, after which he travelled extensively through France, Australia, New Zealand, and California, absorbing the philosophies of each region before returning to the Cape.

In 1987, Meinert purchased 11.5 hectares in Devon Valley — a parcel known only as 'Remainder of Farm 78, District of Stellenbosch' — planted to Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage since 1975. The granite-based soils and gentle slopes of this site would become the foundation for everything that followed. He went on to serve as the leading winemaker behind the internationally acclaimed wines of Vergelegen, but Devon Valley remained his personal canvas.

Today, the estate has grown to 16 hectares, and Meinert continues to make every wine himself in the original cellar. His approach is resolutely small-batch and hands-on: each wine reflects the specific character of the Devon Valley granite terroir rather than following market trends. The portfolio centres on Bordeaux varietals — Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot — alongside Pinotage and a distinctive white programme.

The flagship Synchronicity is a singular blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Pinotage that changes in proportion with each vintage, reflecting the best expression of the year. The Italian Job, a playful White Merlot, has become a cult favourite for its originality. La Barry Sauvignon Blanc, sourced from selected Stellenbosch vineyards, provides a crisp counterpoint to the red-dominated range.

The Devon Crest blend, named after the vineyard, brings together Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in a Bordeaux-style red that has become a quiet benchmark for the valley. Meanwhile, the straight Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage bottlings show what these granitic slopes can produce when handled by a winemaker who has known the vines for over three decades.

Meinert Wines operates without the trappings of a large estate. There is no lavish tasting room or event venue — visitors taste in or near the working cellar, often with Martin himself pouring. The experience is intimate, unhurried, and focused entirely on what is in the glass. For serious wine enthusiasts who value winemaker-led authenticity over corporate polish, Meinert is one of the most rewarding and genuine stops in the Devon Valley.