South Africa (R310, Stellenbosch, ZA 7599)
The drive on the R310 from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the wine region of the Cape. Just on the climb to the Simonsberg Mountain you find the Tokara wine estate. On its southern slopes from where you have a spectacular view over False Bay and Table Mountain you will find Tokara`s vineyards and olive groves. The elevated slopes which rise between 350 and 550 meters. are situated on sandstone and decomposed granite which gives structure, perfume and longevity to the wines. As this area is mainly known for their reds the owners of Tokara decided a couple of years ago to cultivate land in Elgin, a cool climate area atop Sir Lowry's Pass. The higher altitude and closeness to the Atlantic with its cold winds create a contrast to the climate of Stellenbosch. Soils are predominantly sandstone imparting an ethereal scent to the Chardonnay and especially to the Sauvignon Blanc.
From all the wineries we represent this must be one of the youngest ones. In the early 90's GT Ferrara and his wife Annemarie purchased Farmland right at the Helshoogte Pass that connects Stellenbosch with Franschhoek. GT a well known South African businessman spared no expense in setting up a world class wine farm that would bring out the best of the fruit grown on this exceptional land. Named after his two children Thomas and Kara, Tokara has made extraordinary headways into the South African wine market. Under the guidance of Miles Mossip and Karl Lambour, who is heading the estate, two well known experienced winemakers, who build an impressive estate, producing award wining wines every year. But Tokara doesn’t stand for wine only. Part of the land is dedicated for olive growing and in combination with the fine dining restaurant in an architecturally sophisticated surroundings makes this a remarkable visit for tourists and locals alike.
Karl Lambour is General Manager of Tokara Wine and Olive Estate in Stellenbosch, South Africa. He has over twenty years of experience in the wine industry as a winemaker and cellar master. He joined Tokara in 2016 and leads a young, highly qualified and enthusiastic team, both in the vineyard and the cellar.
