Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Klein Drakenstein Mountains in Paarl, Brookdale Estate produces wines as unexpected as they are enchanting.

A true Cinderella story, Brookdale was once overgrown until the Rudd family recognised the potential and acquired the 67-hectare estate in 2015. Their vision was to produce fine, world-class wines, including interesting blends crafted from varietals that are somewhat ‘unusual’ in South Africa. These Mediterranean varietals, the distinctive Paarl terroir and creative winemaking techniques come together under the visionary hand of Tim Rudd and talented young winemaker Xander Sadie.

Born into a family where winemaking is rooted deeply within its DNA, Xander Sadie holds a diploma in Cellar Technology and Viticulture from Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute. After his studies he completed his practical training at Hamilton Russell, with harvests at Intellego Wines, Swartland. He gained international experience in Vouvray, the Douro and in the Sonoma Valley.

Paarl is a historic and diverse wine region located in South Africa’s Western Cape, not New Zealand. Situated just north of Stellenbosch, it is one of the country’s oldest wine-producing areas and plays a key role in the South African wine industry, home to many established producers and cooperatives.

The region has a warm Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The Berg River provides essential irrigation, while the nearby Drakenstein and Paarl Mountains offer elevation and varying exposures that help moderate the heat. Granite-based soils and cooling afternoon breezes also contribute to the quality and balance of the wines.

Paarl is known for its full-bodied red wines, particularly Shiraz (Syrah), which thrives in the warm conditions and produces rich, spicy styles. Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage are also widely planted, with the latter being a uniquely South African variety. Among white grapes, Chenin Blanc – South Africa’s most planted variety – performs well, producing anything from fresh, zesty wines to complex, barrel-aged examples. Chardonnay and Viognier are also notable.

While once overshadowed by Stellenbosch, Paarl has gained renewed attention for its diversity, improved quality, and focus on sustainability, producing wines with both power and finesse.

Chenin Blanc is a versatile white grape variety originating in France’s Loire Valley, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Known for its high natural acidity and adaptability, Chenin Blanc thrives in a range of climates and soils, making it one of the most flexible white grapes in the world.

Viticulturally, Chenin Blanc is a vigorous and early-budding vine, which can make it susceptible to spring frosts. However, its thick skins and ability to retain acidity allow for a wide range of picking times, supporting various wine styles—from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, including sparkling wines.

While still prominent in France—especially in Vouvray, Anjou, and Saumur—Chenin Blanc has found remarkable success in South Africa, where it is the most widely planted grape. Called Steen, the South African examples range from fresh, citrus-driven styles to complex, oak-aged wines with notes of stone fruit, honey, and spice.

Chenin Blanc is also grown in the USA (notably California), Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand, often used in blends or as a varietal wine.

Flavour profiles include green apple, pear, quince, honeysuckle, and melon in dry versions, while sweeter styles offer notes of apricot, honey, and ginger. Its natural acidity and age-worthiness make Chenin Blanc a favourite among sommeliers and wine enthusiasts alike.