Restless River
Where
Restless River is located in the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, and is home to the oldest Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay vines in the Hemel-en-Aarde, with Pinot Noir added in 2013.
The estate sits on ancient, granite-based, rocky clay soils - a geological feature rare even within the broader Walker Bay region. These decomposed granite soils, combined with low summer daytime temperatures, create ideal conditions for growing elegant, slow-ripening fruit. The result: site expressive, estate-grown wines with natural restraint, purity, and length.
Who
Restless River is owned and run by Craig and Anne Wessels, who live and work full-time on the estate. The Wessels family’s connection to the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley traces back to 1760, when their ancestor Wessel Wessels became the first settler to live and farm in the region - then known as Attacquas Kloof. Historians credit him with giving the valley its current name, Hemel-en-Aarde “Heaven and Earth”. Craig Wessels is also a seventh-generation descendant of President Paul Kruger, intertwining the family's legacy with South Africa’s broader history.
In 2004, Craig and Anne purchased a portion of that original land - raw and untamed - and began building Restless River from scratch. With no prior experience in farming or winemaking, Craig began in the garage, driven by curiosity, instinct, and a deep respect for craftsmanship. Today, Restless River is a true family-run estate. Craig oversees the winemaking, Anne manages the business operations, and their son Luke takes charge of the vineyards.
From modest beginnings to international recognition, the estate remains rooted in hands-on work, sustainability, and a strong sense of place.
Famed
Since releasing their first wines in 2012, Restless River has become one of South Africa’s most respected producers, known for precision, site expression, and restraint.
“If you have ever wondered whether the Cape would ever make Grand Cru Chardonnay, the answer is in this bottle.”
- Matthew Dukes
“Is this the best Cab Sauvignon in South Africa right now? Yes.”
- Natasha Hughes MW
“Arguably one of the finest Pinot Noirs I’ve ever tasted from the Cape. It rivals Burgundian benchmarks”
- Christian Eedes
– Platter’s Wine of the Year 2020: Ava Marie 2017 Chardonnay
– Main Road & Dignity Cabernet Sauvignon: Top-scoring SA Cabernet in Winemag 2024 Prescient Report
– Le Luc Pinot Noir: 5 Stars – Platter’s Guide 2024
– First Growth Status – Tim Atkin MW South Africa Report: 2018–Present
Offerings
The Restless River tasting experience is intentionally personal. Guests are welcomed by Craig, Anne or Luke, often beginning with a walk through the vineyards, a visit to the cellar, and ending on the stoep of the Cape Dutch homestead.
Please note: Bookings are essential and subject to availability. Right of admission is reserved.
To purchase wines from Restless River, please visit:
Visit
Tasting Room
Situated in the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Appellation.
Regrettably, their tasting room is closed for the time being.
