Previously known as Laibach, the Simonsberg estate that was purchased by neighbouring Kanonkop in April 2022, is now known as Ladybird Vineyards.
Ladybird Vineyards 36ha of organic vineyards include Chenin Blanc, Merlot, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Current vintages will still be offered under the Laibach identity, but from 2023 the range will fall entirely under the labels of Ladybird Vineyards.
Ladybird Vineyards use a blend of tradition and innovation to produce wines of outstanding quality that best reflect the unique terroir and micro climate of the Simmonsberg region near Stellenbosch. The terroir of lean, deep red soils and cool maritime winds from nearby False Bay produces grapes of concentrated fruit and excellent structure from the vines on their north east facing slopes.
The estates philosophy is to use viticulture methods to manage their vineyards that enhances the ecological balance of the vineyards natural cycle, as well as integrating the different parts of viticulture into an ecological whole.
Managed by the very likeable Mike Malherbe, a totally fanatical grape grower, and in tandem with the exceptionally talented winemaker, Francois van Zyl, they endeavour to craft wines that reflect both the identity of the different grape varieties and the terroir.
The history of the farm can be traced back until the year 1818. Originally named “Good Success” and owned by Dutchman Daniel Johannes van Ryneveld from Amsterdam, this vast farm extended to most of the catchment area in the valley enclosed by the Simonsberg, Kanonkop and Klapmuts.
The property was later divided into three farms: Warwick, De Goede Sukses and the remainder of the farm Good Success, which became Laibach in 1994, when entrepreneur Friedrich Laibach realized his dream of owning a vineyard.
Laibach Vineyards was then sold to current owners, Johann & Paul Krige of neighbouring Kanonkop Wine Estate in April 2022.
According to Johann Krige, co-owner of Kanonkop Estate and Ladybird Vineyards, the acquisition of Laibach allowed for the creation of a new brand to herald in the next phase of this venerable Simonsberg property.
This is a name strong enough to carry our new estate’s entire identity in a visible brand with which consumers can relate, especially as it carries the farm’s ethos of organic and sustainable farming.”
