Situated at 1100m above sea level in the Midlands area of Lions River, Abingdon Wine Estate is truely unique, as is its wine in the glass.Â
Ian and Jane Smorthwaite bought their farm in 2000 and planted vines in 2004. The estate has 2ha under vine and this includes the only certified single vineyards in the entire Kwa-Zulu Natal region. The cultivars planted range from Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Sauvignon blanc, Viognier to Chardonnay. The soils are Clovelly and Griffon and offer good drainage, which is most welcome, especially when rain shows itself in summer.Â
The wines reflect the cool slopes upon which the cultivars are planted and the nuances that these wines have lean to Old World style: the nose is shy and not upfront as is the case in New World wines and the palate offers cool fruit and minerality, with alcohol at a  moderate 13 – 13,5%. In the past couple of days, their Viognier 2009 has been certified by SAWIS, thus joining the Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon which was first certified in 2007 – their maiden vintage.Â
The vines are only five years old and thus we look forward to concentration of fruit and structure as expected from mature vines. No doubt there will be changes made in the vineyard and cellar as their winery grows and more is understood about the physical environment or terroir. Abingdon wines represent Kwa-Zulu Natal Wine of Origin and therefore should not be compared to a wine from Stellenbosch or Darling, but of course you would taste the difference in the glass!
There is much to celebrate at Abingdon, including 
their new tasting room which offers light meals upon request and a charming guest cottage that offers beautiful views of the Midlands. Add to this positive and energetic hosts and you have a perfect location from which to explore the Midlands Meander.
For more information contact Ian or Jane on 033 – 2344335 or email abingdon@iuncapped.co.za