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In 1899, after travelling by wagon through Stellenbosch Kloof, he made the first discovery of Early Stone Age tools near Stellenbosch. Five hundred thousand year old Acheulean hand-axes made from quartzite cobbles similar to those found by Louis Péringuey are still commonly found in the vineyards at Jordan Wine Estate. These are centred on the oldest French-clone Chenin Blanc vineyards grafted onto American rootstock that were planted by Ted Jordan in 1983.
The distinct ravine which embodies Stellenbosch Kloof harnesses all the qualities of a well-orientated compass. Varying elevations and aspects allows us to grow a selection of classic varieties to specific sites that optimise this expression through their location. The cooler south- and east-facing aspects, unique in Stellenbosch, hosts the more sensitive and aromatic white-skinned grape varieties.
Stellenbosch Kloof enjoys a cooler Mediterranean climate with maritime influences from False Bay, 14km to the south, and a refreshing breeze channelled from the West Coast’s Benguela current 24km to the north-west. These two breezes culminate at the top end of the ravine and bring in early morning mists, especially from False Bay. Consequently, temperatures in our meso-climate can be measured at least 3° Celsius cooler than inland Stellenbosch during ripening periods. This adds a unique characteristic to Jordan wines.
