ABOUT IDIOM WINES
At Idiom Wine Farm, tradition and innovation meet to create some of the Cape Winelands’ most celebrated wines. From our world-class blends to expressive single varietals, Idiom has become highly recognised for its iconic Cape and Bordeaux-style blends, earning a collection of prestigious local and international awards. Our philosophy is rooted in craftsmanship and excellence, with each wine reflecting both the heritage of our vineyards and the unique terroir of the Helderberg basin, which is situated in the Southernmost wine region of Stellenbosch.
Beyond wine, Idiom is home to one of the top restaurants in South Africa, consistently recognised for its exceptional cuisine, panoramic views, and authentic hospitality. We have created dedicated sustainability projects to protect our surrounding ecosystems and ensure our vineyards thrive for future generations. Idiom has earned its reputation as one of the most exceptional destinations in the Cape Winelands.
THE BOTTEGA FAMILY
Alberto Bottega was born in Milan, Italy in 1942. After spending his childhood in the Friuli region of north-east Italy, Alberto emigrated with his parents and sister to Cape Town in 1950. He met his wife Valerie in 1960 and together they have three children – Roberto, Laura and Silvana. Idiom was the vision of Alberto Bottega and Valerie Bottega as a legacy to pass onto their three children and grandchildren. The family wine farm has seen many great achievements – including the massive project to build a signature tasting centre and restaurant in 2016 undertaken by Alberto and Roberto.
DA CAPO VINEYARDS
The vineyards that bear the fruit of Idiom are called “Da Capo” which means “from the beginning” or “from the Cape” in Italian, a reference to the fact that the vineyards were carefully laid out and planted on the farm for the first time in 1999. The true inspiration for the farm’s name was drawn from an unforgettable Three Tenors concert back in July 1990. So special was the night that when Luciano Pavarotti asked the President of Italy which song he should perform as an encore, the reply was simply “Da Capo!”.
TERROIR
Nestling at the foot of majestic granite mountains, the slopes vary in height from 200 to 350 metres above sea level and have aspects which face north, west and south. The 150 hectare property can be seen from far due to the distinctive mountain shape which is known as the Idiom Conical Peak. The soils contain decomposed granite which is relatively shallow and stony in patches with a clay base. The distinctive northern, western and southern aspects create several micro-terroirs, which add character and complexity to the wines.
TERROIR
Granite/Tukulu (decomposed granite) and Table Mountain Sandstone.
MOUNTAIN
Vineyard carefully laid out to match height and aspect of the slopes.
MARITIME
Proximity to the sea with views of the False Bay peninsula and cooler climatic influence of the ocean.
WIND
Powerful wind ensuring limited berries and intense flavours.
THE WINEMAKER – Reino Thiart
Beginning his career in fine wine sales in both the U.K. and South Africa, our winemaker developed a strong appreciation for what makes a wine truly exceptional. His passion for the craft led him into the cellar, where he gained hands-on experience with 20 different varietals before taking on the role of winemaker in 2007. Today, he channels this knowledge and skill into the Idiom portfolio, producing bold blends and expressive single varietals that balance Old World tradition with New World innovation. His commitment to excellence has helped Idiom earn prestigious local and international awards, with each bottle crafted to reflect both the farm’s unique terroir and the timeless enjoyment of fine wine.
THE IDIOM COLLECTION
The Idiom wine collection is one of the most diverse in South Africa, comprising 20 different varietals that showcase both international heritage and Cape identity. The range offers a rare opportunity to explore and directly compare the classic French wines of Bordeaux and the Rhône, alongside the great Italian wines of Tuscany and Piedmont – all reimagined through the lens of the Cape Winelands terroir. This unique combination allows Idiom to highlight both Old World tradition and New World innovation, creating wines that are distinctive, expressive, and truly memorable.
With 20 varietals grown on the estate, the Idiom Collection is a selection of our best single varietals and blended wines. At Idiom, we favour lesser seen single varietals and iconic classic blends.
Named after the limited number of bottles in each collection, the Idiom 900 Series is a rare expression of 900 bottles or less. Each bottle is carefully selected to express the best of Idiom.
The Heritage Series pays tribute to the Bottega family’s Italian roots. Renowned for their exceptional value, these wines are frequently selected by top restaurants as their preferred wine-by-the-glass choice.