February 5, 2025
Paradise in Paarl: Brookdale Wine Estate
Situated in the heart of South Africa’s Paarl Wine Valley, Brookdale Estate offers some of the region’s most innovative wine creations. The sprawling country escape is crowned by a Manor House which overlooks manicured indigenous gardens, wild fynbos, dipping valleys and towering hills.
Brookdale Estate serves as a unique, working wine farm where imagination meets skill. With a Bistro, Tasting Room and state-of-the-art Wine Cellar, it’s easy to spend your days here, exploring the refined lifestyle of country living.
The History
A true Cinderella story, the estate was once overgrown and underused. The Rudd family saw its enormous potential and acquired the property with a clear vision in mind – to create a world-class country estate that produces fine and interesting wine blends using unusual varieties in a South African context.
Before vines could be planted, alien vegetation had to be cleared, and the balance of nature restored. The Rudd family successfully cleared the 67 hectares of land, salvaging a block of Chenin Blanc that would become its maiden release and planted the remaining 40 hectares with indigenous vegetation and gardens for guests of the Manor House to explore.
As ardent wine connoisseurs, Brookdale Estate is the pinnacle of the Rudd family’s passion. Here, Mediterranean varieties, a unique Paarl terroir and innovative winemaking techniques are brought together under the visionary hand of owner, Tim Rudd, winemaker, Xander Sadie and assistant winemaker, Shanice du Preez.
The Bistro at Brookdale
Set on gentle slopes amongst the Estate vineyards, The Bistro gazes out across new vines and the mountainous landscape of our valley in the Paarl Winelands. Dining here is an exploration of local flavours and seasonal produce. Executive Chef Gary Coetzee crafts menus that reflect the estate’s philosophy of curiosity and wellness, offering a dining experience that complements the innovative wines produced on-site.
The Tasting Room at Brookdale
Within the Estate’s tasting room, guests can discover more about the Brookdale and Mason Road Wine Ranges, ask questions, learn about the vines and wine philosophy and sample the Estate’s terroir-driven vintages. Deeply passionate about testing new theories, the team spend time gathering guest feedback, trying new recipes and utilising the fact that each harvest has a unique potential for the exceptional.
With a deep commitment to sustainable practices, Brookdale Estate ensures every bottle of wine reflects the natural beauty and character of the land from which it was grown. This commitment extends beyond winemaking, seeking to provide a holistic experience for all guests that harmonise with the environment.