Aquila Collection Acquires White Pinotage Pioneer, Rebrands as Dekkersvlei

Paarl, South Africa – Leading tourism and hospitality group, Aquila Collection, announced its acquisition of Mellasat Vineyards, the celebrated Paarl wine estate renowned for producing the world’s first White Pinotage. In a nod to its rich heritage, the esteemed property will be returning to its original name: Dekkersvlei.

This exciting new chapter for the historic estate will see a renewed focus on its unique claim to fame: the pioneering White Pinotage – transforming it into an unparalleled guest experience. Aquila Collection is set to invest significantly in the property, with upgrades planned to enhance its appeal as a premier wine tourism destination.

A cornerstone of this new vision will be the launch of an exclusive “Taste the Original” day tour wine experience. This immersive journey will invite guests to discover the story and sensory magic of the world’s first White Pinotage, right where it was born.

Immediate upgrades and strategic changes are already underway to elevate the Dekkersvlei experience:

• Revamped Tasting Room: The tasting room will undergo a stylish transformation to create a sophisticated and welcoming space for guests to explore the estate’s unique wines.
• Dedicated Expanded Parking: To accommodate more visitors comfortably, dedicated and expanded parking facilities will be developed.
• Purpose-Built Wine Estate Entrance: A new, purpose-built entrance will create a grand sense of arrival, befitting the estate’s status.
• New Vineyard Plantings: Investment in the vineyards will include new plantings, ensuring the continued quality and legacy of Dekkersvlei wines.
• Dedicated White Pinotage Team: A specialized team will be brought in to focus exclusively on the production of the flagship White Pinotage, further enhancing its world-class quality.
• “Taste the Original” Boutique Tour: An intimate boutique tour experience will be meticulously crafted, offering guests an in-depth and personal encounter with the story and creation of the iconic White Pinotage.

“We are excited to welcome Dekkersvlei into the Aquila Collection family,” said Searl Derman. “This estate is a unique place in the Cape Winelands, holding a piece of South African wine history as the birthplace of White Pinotage. Our vision is to honour this legacy while creating unforgettable experiences that celebrate this remarkable wine. The ‘Taste the Original’ tour and the planned upgrades are just the beginning of an exciting journey to position Dekkersvlei as a must-visit destination for wine lovers globally.”

The return to the Dekkersvlei name honours the farm’s deep historical roots in the Paarl region. Aquila Collection is committed to sustainable practices and community upliftment, principles that will be woven into the fabric of Dekkersvlei’s future operations.

Further details on the “Taste the Original” day tour and other developments will be announced shortly.