The history of Zonnebloem dates as far back as the early part of the 18th century, when wines were already being produced on the Zonnebloem farm at Simondium. Early this century, the vineyards were replanted with the best rootstocks available and a prize-winning tradition of Zonnebloem wines was born. By the mid-1940s, Zonnebloem had become renowned among local wine lovers, as a result of its many awards earned at Cape wine shows. Zonnebloem also achieved a following in England, where it was imported by Burgoynes of London.

The Zonnebloem motto is “la main a loeuvre” (the hand that works). It is a symbol of the wine-making philosophy brought to Zonnebloem wines: that hard work through the careful establishment of vineyards, the selection of the finest rootstock, the choice of the finest quality grapes and the application of the finest viticultural and vinicultural methods results in wines that rank as jewels among connoisseurs.

The family believes that grapes should not be rushed and wines should not be hurried. Therefore, the company patiently observes the passage of time until their wines have reached their pinnacle. Zonnebloem practices the art of “minimal intervention,” in which what you leave out is just as important as what you put in.

Zonnebloem is the flagship of Stellenbach Farmers’ Winery. The grapes are grown in the districts of Stellenbosch and Durbanville (near Cape Town) and vinified and aged at the historic Stellenbosch Farmers’ Winery.