Dornier Wines
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Dornier Wines is situated on the foot of the Stellenbosch Mountains amidst the Stellenbosch wine lands in South Africa. The red wines are mostly based on Cabernet Sauvignon and the whites on Chenin Blanc.
History
The wine estate is named after the German artist Christoph Dornier; he was the youngest son of aircraft designer Claude Dornier.
In 1995 Dornier started the estate by purchasing their first of five farms. Today nearly 180 hectares belong to the wine estate. In the following years the former fruit and cattle farms were converted into vineyards. Dornier was one of the first international investors who saw the potential of the South African wine production.
He was also one of the founders of the De Zalze Golf Estate, one of the most successful real estate development projects in the region.
Since 2006 Dornier has been a member of the Biodiversity and Wine Initiative which contributes to the sustainable cultivation of the vineyards and the protection of the local fynbos.
In 2007 Dornier opened their Bodega Restaurant in one of the oldest buildings of Stellenbosch. The founder passed away in 2008 at the age of 69 in Lucerne, Switzerland. His legacy has been secured by a foundation.
Architecture
The winery, designed by Dornier, was opened in 2003. It is a symbol of emergence and the modern South Africa. 'Great architecture is art, poor architecture is conventional triviality made of stone and concrete.' - CMD Dornier.
The loft-style winery with its curved roof and the use of face brick and reflecting materials blends creatively into the scenery of Stellenbosch Mountain. The style of the winery is a visual translation of the wines – elegant, clear and unique. The curved roof is also part of the design of the labels. Through many publications in architecture and travel magazines a lot of attention was drawn to the Dornier Winery.
Philosophy
The philosophy of the Dornier Family consists of making wines by combining tradition, innovation and creativity.
The wines
The wines are produced in three ranges, which differ in price range and style but all show the characteristic freshness and elegance of the estate. The wines are mostly exported to Europe, North America and Asia.
Awards
- Dornier Donatus White
- Mundus Vini Gold
- 4,5 Platter Stars
- Silver (Best in Class), International Wine&Spirits Competition
- Dornier Donatus Red
- 4,5 Platter Stars
- 18/20 Weinwisser, René Gabriel
- Silver Decanter World Wide Awards