One of the things I love most about wine is how it brings together completely different worlds at the same table. On the one hand, you have visionary giants like Graham Beck who shape global perceptions of Cap Classique. On the other, there are smaller estates, quietly crafting wines that speak with soul and precision like Klein Grainet. At a recent tasting in Vienna, I had the chance to explore both sides in one sitting.
After Graham Beck’s sparkling masterclass, the story continued with Deux Frères – now known as Klein Graniet Wines – a boutique estate from Stellenbosch, introduced to us personally by owner Retief du Toit.
A Family Estate with Granite Roots
The story began in 1998, when the du Toit brothers purchased their farm on the western slopes of the Simonsberg. There wasn’t a masterplan, but rather an evolving vision: to make the most of what the land could offer. The first steps were small, careful, and thoughtful. By 2007, their wines began reaching the market, marking the start of what would become one of Stellenbosch’s most intriguing boutique projects.
The estate was named Deux Frères, honouring the partnership of brothers Retief and Stephan du Toit. Over time, the wines gained recognition for their precision and terroir-driven style. But in 2023, a naming conflict with a Swiss label required a change. Thus, the wines were rebranded as Klein Graniet Wines – a name inspired by the small granite outcrops that define their vineyards and give structure to their wines.
It’s worth noting that the farm and luxury villas still carry the Deux Frères name. The rebrand affects only the wine label. As Retief explained, the philosophy remains unchanged: same hands, same land, same love.
Vineyards and Winemaking at Klein Graniet
Klein Graniet farms just 5 hectares of vineyards, with a mix of Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Mourvèdre, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The small size allows for a very hands-on approach, from detailed soil work to careful pruning. Since 2020, there’s been a renewed focus on sustainability in vineyard practices — a recognition that healthy soils and balanced vines are the true foundation of quality wine.The focus is on balance, precision, and allowing the site to speak.
Soil cultivation and pruning are central to their philosophy. Narrow row spacing drives the roots deeper into the ground, building resilience and character. In the cellar, the approach is minimal intervention, with great care taken during élevage.
What struck me most personally: their choice of Hungarian oak for maturation. As a Hungarian, this detail made me smile – a subtle bridge between Stellenbosch and my homeland. It’s not just a technical decision but one that gives their wines a distinctive spice, warmth, and elegance.
Tasting the Wines of Klein Graniet
At the tasting, Retief poured a line-up that showed just how much depth and personality can come from such a small vineyard.
Sauvignon Blanc 2021
Not your typical Sauvignon Blanc. From just 1.5 hectares of vines, this wine shows a delicate, elegant style rather than a punchy tropical profile. On the nose, white florals mingle with peaches, apricots, and light citrus notes. The palate is dry and finely cut, with a mineral backbone and citrusy lift. Balanced and understated, it lingers with a long, peachy aftertaste. A refined and quietly confident expression of Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc.
Mourvèdre 2020
A rare single-varietal Mourvèdre from Stellenbosch — and a standout of the tasting. Aromas of fresh blueberries, cherries, and roses open into layers of black pepper and sweet cooking spices: star anise, cinnamon, cardamom, bay leaf. Beneath the fruit lies earthier complexity — hints of mushroom, rosemary, and a smoky, underground note that gives depth. On the palate, it’s spicy and layered but beautifully balanced, with juicy freshness carrying the flavours. The tannins are soft and ripe, wrapping the wine in finesse. The finish is long, fruity-spicy, and fresh.
Fraternité 2015
A remarkable vintage blend of 70% Shiraz and 30% Mourvèdre, aged mostly in Hungarian oak. The nose is generous with plum and black cherry pie, ripe blueberries, dried roses, pepper, and warm oak spice. On the palate it’s full-bodied yet elegant, with smooth, ripe tannins that remain persistent. The fruit is still lively after nearly a decade, with black cherry and blackcurrant flavours intertwining with spice from the oak. It closes on a very long, dark-fruited, spicy finish. A wine with both power and poise.
Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Crafted from three different clones in a single block and aged 20–22 months in 100% new Hungarian oak, this Cabernet is strikingly complex. The bouquet shows deep blackcurrant and plum, ripe blueberries, and a cool lift of menthol. Notes of roasted coffee beans, tobacco, sweet cinnamon, and smoke weave through the background. On the palate, it feels surprisingly youthful, with high but persistent tannins, vibrant acidity, and layers of dark fruit. Flavours of ripe blueberry, blackcurrant, and pepper carry into a very long finish of plums and smoke. A serious wine of excellent quality and ageing potential.
Tribute 2018
A blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, with just 8% French oak complementing the Hungarian barrels. The nose is opulent and ripe, with plums, dark cherries, vanilla, smoke, and toffee. The palate is juicy and fruit-forward, with smooth, high tannins giving structure. Acidity keeps it lively and food-friendly, while flavours of ripe plums and spice linger on the long finish. A wine that feels ready to take its place at the table — especially next to grilled meats like steak or ribs.
Final Thoughts
What I found at Klein Graniet was not just a tasting, but a story of patience and persistence. This is a small estate with just a handful of hectares, but the wines are anything but small. They are soulful, complex, and clearly shaped by both the granite soils of Simonsberg and the steady hands of the du Toit family.
The rebrand may have changed the name on the label, but the wines remain the same: authentic, expressive, and deeply rooted in place. For me, Klein Graniet represents the quiet strength of Stellenbosch – proof that boutique wineries can carry just as much power and vision as the giants.
The Author
I enjoyed the read and have a special place in my heart for South African wines. I did a wine tour of the Cape Winelands in February and was very impressed with the quality of viticulture and winemaking. You accomplished relating that to the readers. Your wine tasting notes are also very thorough. Good work. Cheers!
Thank you Lidija for the kind words, I am glad you find my article engaging. 🙂 You’re so lucky to have visited the Cape Winelands, I wish I can do the same one day. Happy you found the tasting notes thourough, I wish you a happy weekend ahead!