Graceland Vineyards

Paul and Sue McNaughton purchased Graceland, an 18 hectare farm on the slopes of the Helderberg in 1990. Initially only small blocks of Cabernet and Merlot were planted. The vine-planting program has accelerated in recent years so that there are currently 10 hectares planted with just under half already producing. 1998 was the first vintage.

A “red only” route has been pursued following the soil, climate and slope parameters. 4 hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon, 1.5 hectares of Merlot and 3.5 hectares of Shiraz have been planted. This is a small estate, with production of all wines hitting merely 40,000 bottles annually.

A friend suggested developing the theme of “The Three Graces”, and this was brought to life by Mark Ransome, who used Baron Jean Baptiste Regnault’s famous painting of The Three Graces from the Louvre to design the neck label. The underlying story comes from Greek mythology, with the three featured ladies daughters of Jupiter: Aglaia, Euphrosyne and Thalia. Legend has it that these were physical embodiments of Beauty, Joy and Charm – all acceptable characteristics for a wine.

Graceland’s situation against the slopes of the Helderberg in proven red wine territory together with diligent viticultural practices has combined to produce wines worthy of attention.