The art of Chardonnay Louisvale, with its elegant, 100 year old Sir Herbert Baker-designed homestead, is situated at the foot of the majestic Stellenbosch mountains in verdant Devon Valley, and its lush, manicured vineyards produce outstanding wines, particularly Chardonnay. Towering oak trees protect this island of peace and tranquility from the outside world, although it is a mere 40 minute drive from the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town. Louisvale's journey began with the planting of the first vines in 1989, shortly after the property was bought by Hans Froehling and Leon Stemmet in 1988. Hans and Leon were the perfect and most flamboyant ambassadors for the range of Chardonnays that enjoyed a special place in the South African market and which still boasts a loyal following. During 1993, Marinus Bredell took over the winemaking role and decided to include red wines in what was then exclusively, a Chardonnay range. In July 1997, a brand new cellar welcomed wine maker Simon Smith who has nurtured the vines and wines with a passion for the past fifteen years. In September 2010, a group of four business friends, Altmann Allers, Hendrik Kluever, Zane Meyer and Johann Kirsten acquired Louisvale. They have tended this gem ever since.