The official date on the Title Deed of Rust en Vrede is March 12th, 1694. The property was granted by the Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel. The Cape Dutch buildings on the property date back to 1780, and today, they all have National Monument status. They are living history, used on a daily basis - I still live in the Manor house where I grew up, and the original winery is now the Rust en Vrede Restaurant.

My parents, Jannie and Ellen, acquired Rust en Vrede in 1977 and immediately embarked on a full restoration of the Estate. First, they restored and equipped the original winery, and in 1978 my father made the first vintage of the modern era. An extensive vineyard re-planting also took place, focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot. Over the years, our wines have gone from strength to strength, and today I am fortunate to work with a team like ours and privileged to call Rust en Vrede my home.

Jean Engelbrecht
Proprietor