History
The name Rivendell means “elven outpost” and is older than the novel Lord of the Rings from Tolkein.
Although Heimo visited the area as student before, the Botriver Valley, with its postcard beauty, stole Heimo and Maria Thalhammer’s hearts when they first arrived here.
They were enchanted by the ideal cool Walker Bay climate, protection by the shade of the Kogelberg mountain range as well as being close to the sea and the lagoon.
Passionate about winemaking, Rivendell was born when they decided to continue in the wine making tradition of Heimo’s Austrian great-grandparents who owned vineyards in the Austrian-Hungarian monarchy in the lower part of the Austrian province of Styria. Styria is known today as the traditional Slovenian region Spodnja Štajerska – in the 19th and early 20th century, and so the dream of a young student came to life more than 35 years later.
In 2007 an experienced viticulturist started to investigate the specific location of Rivendell and after having exploited many samples of the soil the decision was made to plant Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz vines late in 2008.
The production of wine was not uncommon at Rivendell. Neighbours reported on a passionate winemaker and farm owner who produced a Pinot Noir in the eighties of the last century.
Situated on the Whale Route, at one with nature and its surrounds, Rivendell, like its wine, epitomizes harmony and tranquility, coupled with vibrancy and a spirit of adventure, whilst retaining a classic elegance.
Our Team
Shareholders – Heimo & Maria Thalhammer
General Manager – Brandon Scorgie
Brandon Scorgie is an architect and shareholder in Engelbrecht & Scorgie, an architectural firm based in Hermanus. In conjunction with Maria Thalhammer, he planned and designed all the new buildings on the farm and Engelbrecht & Scorgie built the houses. Brandon is the main contact for Rivendell’s farm business and is also a partner of the shareholders and general manager.
Wine sales – Rachel Brown
Rachel is the manager in our Wine Tasting Venue. She completed the coveted Food and Beverages Leadership Management Programme through the University of Stellenbosch Business school before focusing more specifically on wine and food and wine pairing. She uses her experience gained at farms such as Amani Vineyards and Delaire Graff Estate to ensure our guests receive a welcoming introduction to our farm and wines. Rachel is known for taking our guests on a journey of ‘wine discovery’ as they explore together the different factors (climate, terroir) that contribute to make a Rivendell wine unique. She generally recommends that guests try all three wines (Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, Rose) to enjoy at different occasions.
Viticulturist – Schalk du Toit
Farm Manager – John van Tonder
John graduated from Elsenburg Agricultural College in 1989 with a diploma in Viticulture and Horticulture. He always had a passion for the wine industry, but awaited the right opportunity. He has 16 years experience in the fruit industry growing various fruits from apples and pears right down to raspberries, strawberries, blue berries and cherries. He also spent 5 years in the business sector where he gained valuable management experience. His love and ambition for farming, stemming from his childhood years, never went away and when presented with the opportunity to join Rivendell he was overjoyed. His dream is to make his own wine one day.
Contact details
ADDRESS. N2 from Cape Town (direction Caledon): just after Houw Hoek pass, take exit 90 to Hermanus. Pass Bot River turn-off. Pass Kleinmond turn-off.
GPS. 34.26315 South 19.18767 East
TELEPHONE. +27 (0)28 284 9185
FAX NUMBER. +27 (0)28 284 9597
EMAIL. office@rivendell-estate.co.za
WEBSITE. www.rivendell-estate.co.za
FACEBOOK. Join us on Facebook
