Our Story
A Proud Heritage
The history of Stettyn Family Vineyards begins in 1714 with land being granted to Jan Cloete and Jan Jurgen Radyn by the Governor of the Cape Colony, Mauritz Pasques de Chavonnes. It got its name from Radyn’s hometown of Stettin, or Szczecin, in north-western Poland. These early settlers were charged with planting trees for timber, grain, and fruit trees to supply travelers into the hinterland. Today, traces of this heritage remain among others, ancient oaks in front of Stettyn’s Cape Dutch manor (dating back to 1777), the old mill that’s still in working order, and old certified vines. The Cape Dutch homestead and old mill have been lovingly restored and are now classified as National Monuments. This restoration work ensures that these historic buildings are preserved for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
The Stettyn Family
On the road less travelled, you will find Stettyn Family Vineyards… In the splendid isolation of a winemaking region and majestic valley between Worcester and Villiersdorp. Stettyn was acquired by the Botha family in 1818 and has been in the family for eight generations.
The Stettyn Family Vineyards itself was established in 1963, with the vineyards of Stettyn, Jonkersrivier, and De Hoek being the primary sources of production and where the tradition of wine-making dates back for many year.
More about our wine production....
Wine has been produced on the individual farms since the late 1800’s up until the 1950’s, whereafter resources were pooled to build a modern cellar, with the first wine being produced in 1964. Today Stettyn wines are produced in a modernized cellar with a capacity of 7000 tons. A team of skilled winemakers uses a combination of multi-generational know-how and cutting-edge technology to ply their craft. Eight generations have worked together on our land to create wines with a quality-first approach and a focus on innovative winemaking. Our intricately crafted wines have received rave reviews from our valued customers and esteemed awards from critics. Their commitment to using only the best grapes, sourced from their selected vineyards ensures that every bottle of wine they produce is of the highest quality. From hand-harvesting the grapes to meticulously monitoring the fermentation process, every aspect of wine making is given the utmost care and attention.
The Stone Range
The Stone Range takes its name from the old stone watermill that was built in 1895, which stands sentinel over the winery where Stone Wines are produced. The Old Watermill, which was documented in the Worcester Advertiser on the 23rd May 1891, was recorded because the Worcester Cricket Team stopped there on their way to Caledon.
This watermill is only one of the 12 watermills in South Africa that are still in working order.
Shackleton Range
On 8 August 1963, the Shackleton 1718 crashed into Stettyn Mountains, and nobody aboard survived the crash. The year 1963 was also the year in which Stettyn laid their first foundations for Stettyn Wine Cellar. This airplane was powered by Rolls Royce – Griffon engines, also a golden thread between our Stettyn Griffin logo.
Stettyn Peak rises to 1821m above sea level. It is situated in the Klein Drakenstein Mountain range that runs north to south approximately 100km east of Cape Town, South Africa. Standing on the peak, as it is the highest point in the area, you can see Cape Town and the cool Atlantic Ocean in the distance. The peak and its surrounding mountains are the catchment area for the rain for Stettyn farm and the valley below. In winter, the peak is often covered with snow and therefore gives us icy cold winter mornings.
We give back to the community, with a donation for each bottle sold, towards The Friends of the SAAF Museum.
The Signature Range
The Signature Reserve Range focus on the use of different ageing vessel that ensures great ageing potential. It is also a reminder of the forgotten stories and the strong Polish connections that have shaped not only our wines but also our lives. The Griffin was thought to be a majestic creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle. This legendary king of all creatures and the guardian a keeper of treasures and priceless possessions is proudly represented on the coat of arms as well as on the gates of the Polish city, Szczecin. The keeper of Stettyn Family Vineyards, the Griffin is a constant reminder of our commitment too, and pride in our wines.
Guardian Range
A well-balanced blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Shiraz and 15% Durif. Integrated tannins ensure both structure and longevity.
Cheers to the rich tapestry of Polish heritage, and the enduring bonds that connect us all.
Petra Amphora Chardonnay
In Loving Memory of Petra Griessel. This exquisite Chardonnay is a tribute to Petra Griessel, a cherished matriarch whose love and wisdom continue to inspire the Griessel family. Crafted with care and dedication, this wine embodies the elegance and grace that Petra brought into our lives. Petra’s Chardonnay is a harmonious blend of flavors, just as Petra brought harmony to our family. Its notes of crisp green apple, delicate pear, and a hint of vanilla carry the warmth and comfort of her presence. As you savor each sip, raise your glass to Petra and the enduring bonds of family. May this Chardonnay be a reminder of the cherished moments we shared with Petra and a celebration of her everlasting spirit. Cheers to a life well-lived and a legacy that lives on in our hearts.
In Loving Memory of Petra Griessel (1925 – 2021)
“Stettyn”ability: SUSTAINABILITY AT STETTYN | Our Stettynability has transformed the simple act of buying wine and spirits into a powerful gesture of generosity. With every purchase you make, you’re also automatically contributing to a range of important charitable initiative.