Since 1694 Rust en Vrede has stood peacefully among the vineyards of Stellenbosch. At various times over the centuries wine was produced, but the modern era of winemaking started with the Engelbrecht family in the 1970s. The Engelbrecht family has shaped Rust en Vrede Wine Estate with a distinct vision for the future – to create a legacy of quality red wine, with a focus on Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Rust en Vrede’s wines have excelled to become the best expression of Rust en Vrede’s terroir.
A solar plant on the roof of Rust en Vrede’s winery supplies 40% of the energy requirements in the winery. A battery bank charged by solar has replaced the farm’s diesel generators.
The use of generators are limited.
Drip irrigation is used in the vineyards and applied only when necessary. Wastewater is carefully monitored for quality and quantity, then recycled through an effluent plant and reused for vineyard irrigation.
At Rust en Vrede, most farming is done by hand, and tractors are avoided in young vineyards to prevent soil compaction. Annual cover cropping improves soil health, while compost tea is used as a natural fertiliser. Biological pest control supports vine resilience and reduces reliance on chemicals.
At Rust en Vrede, 12 hectares identified by the International Biodiversity & Wine Initiative are conserved and cared for by the Engelbrecht family. Efforts include removing alien vegetation, replanting indigenous flora, and promoting natural biodiversity.
Rust en Vrede supports sustainable packaging by reusing wine cartons to reduce waste and extend their life cycle. The farm also recycles corks, plastic wrap, glass bottles, and capsules to minimise unnecessary disposal.
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