Drakenstein Mountain Slopes 

Dominant through most of the Paarl region are the mountains. Magnificent in their bold, craggy stance, the Klein Drakenstein range forms an impressive backdrop to Paarl and Wellington, and although three main types of soil are found in the region, granite-based soils predominate against the mountain slopes. Generally the soils are a bit poorer than average, allowing for less vigour with lower yields and better quality. Being a bit further away from the ocean, temperatures are inclined to drop more than elsewhere in winter, allowing for a good winter rest resulting in even budding. Vineyards on the higher slopes are quite exposed to the South-Easter in the early growing season, allowing for natural cropping and better quality following on concentration of flavours.