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Warwick wine estate was known as the farm ‘Good Success’ from 1791 until 1902. After the Anglo Boer war, Colonel Alexander Gordon from Warwickshire regiment bought the farm and renamed it ‘Warwick’ as a tribute to his regiment. In 1964 the farm was purchased by Stan & Norma Ratcliffe-at the time there was not a single vine on the farm. However, they soon realized the potential of the local soil and environment, and began planting Cabernet Sauvignon. Norma became more interested in the making of wine and soon a cellar was in place with 1984 producing the first Warwick vintage (a Cabernet Sauvignon). The Trilogy-a Bordeaux style blend-released in 1986 soon became one of the flagships of the South African Wine Industry. The farm today is still very much a family affair. After 20 years as Warwick’s winemaker, Norma stepped down, succeeded by Louis Nel who is widely considered to be one of the most talented winemakers in South Africa. In 2001, Mike Ratcliffe, Stan and Norma’s son assumed the role of Managing Director.

Located in the Stellenbosch wine growing region, in the valley enclosed by the Simonsberg, Kanonkop and Klapmutskop Mountains, with Table Mountain seen in the distance. Warwick has adopted an environmentally friendly approach to their vineyards, moving away from harmful spraying across the board to selective localised spot spraying under the vines when necessary. This coupled with other techniques has improved the micro-biological structure of the soil, and the harmony and balance with nature of their vineyards.  Mike is also a partner in the new Vilafonte wine venture -see under producers on home page.   

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