Dieu Donné Vineyards

Dieu Donné Vineyards, a boutique winery in Franschhoek, is aptly named—translating to “A Gift from God” for its breathtaking mountain-top setting. Established in 1987 by French-Mauritian Robert Maingard, the estate stands on steep, south-west facing slopes that create a naturally cooled microclimate. Its unique, weathered granite soils—known as “Greywack”—are unirrigated, resulting in vines that ripen slowly and produce intense, concentrated wines with distinctive character.

Terroir & Winemaking

Guided by the experienced winemaker Gregory Siebrits, who has been with the estate since 1998 and released his first vintage in 2019, Dieu Donné crafts both approachable new-world styles and refined old-world reds. Merlot stands as their flagship wine, supported by a range including Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Chardonnay (both unwooded and oak-fermented), Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Méthode Cap Classique, and late-harvest styles.

Experience & Hospitality

The estate’s tasting room, styled like a cellar, invites visitors to enjoy wine—sometimes with cheese platters—on a terrace that offers sweeping views of the Franschhoek, Drakenstein, and Simonsberg valleys. Stretching beyond lounge comfort, it transforms into a sublime sundowner hotspot. Dining options elevate the experience: Roca Restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with Huguenot, African, Mauritian, and Asian influences—best savored with sunset views from the terrace.

Venue Perks

Dieu Donné is a popular stop on the wine tram circuit. Cellar tours, platters, and tastings are available, and the estate also functions as a charming venue for functions, events, and even weddings.

What Makes It Stand Out

• Terroir-driven elegance: Slow, cool-ripened grapes and unique, dry-farmed granite soils produce expressive, refined wines.
• Panoramic views: Elevated position delivers one of Franschhoek’s most scenic and tranquil settings.
• Skilled craftsmanship: Gregory Siebrits brings local expertise and dedication, crafting wines that resonate with terroir and drinkability.
• Holistic experience: Wine, fine dining, picturesque views, and event-ready spaces—all woven together for a memorable visit.

---

Visitor Perspective

On Reddit, Dieu Donné is often recommended not just for its wines, but for its setting:

“Visit Dieu Donne for the view.” “Did you get around to Dieu Donne? … their reds are all top notch … their caramel Chardonnay was really good.”