Ask Andy about this wine

South Africa / Stellenbosch

Warwick Estate is a high-end South African winery in the Stellenbosch region of South Africa. The estate has a rich farming history dating back to 1771. Then a fruit farm, Warwick only emerged on the forefront of South Africa’s wine scene when Stan and Norma Ratcliffe bought the estate in 1964 and started developing the land with an extensive focus on the classic Bordeaux varieties: Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Norma became increasingly interested in the making of wine and began to study the subject. Soon a cellar was in place and Norma began producing her own handcrafted wines using the Warwick grapes. Norma developed a talent for making great wines and production rapidly increased. Through determination and commitment, Norma Ratcliffe became one of the Cape’s first female winemakers – and one of its most illustrious wine personalities

The first wine under the Warwick label was released in 1984, then named “La Femme Bleu” – “Blue Lady” as it is known today.

Throughout the years, Warwick’s wines have won many awards, firmly establishing the brand as a South African icon. Norma was awarded the 1659 Medal of Honour in 2015 for her impact and contribution to the South African wine industry: an impact which has had a lasting effect and benefitted the industry as a whole. Previous winners were Nelson Mandela, amongst other leaders.