Nestled in the foot hills of the majestic Naukluft Mountains and on the edge of the Namib Desert lies Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate.
This unique farm with a combination of wine production and landscape conservation is a true oasis, and owes its existence to several crystal clear cold water springs and towering palm trees.
Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate is part of the N/a’an ku se Ecotourism Collection which offers a variety of accommodation from budget to executive to Bushveld luxury.
The N/a’an ku se Foundation, founded by Dr. Rudie and his wife Marlice van Vuuren, is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to conserving the landscape, culture and wildlife of Nambia. They are dedicated to improving the lives of the people they work with though innovative sustainable commercial activities.
Neuras Wines
One of the most interesting facts about Neuras Wines is that it is one of the world’s driest wineries.
The winery produces roughly 5000 -7000 bottles per year, depending on the harvest and environment. There three types of wine produced namely Neuras Shiraz, the Namib Select and the Directors Reserve.
They also produce Neuras Ruby Port and Neuras Brandy.
Visitors are invited to enjoy a cellar tour to view the process of wine production from start to finish, and ending with wine tasting of Neuras Wines accompanied by a delicious cheese platter, at the Lodge Restaurant.
An opportunity is also offered for a walk through the vineyard to visit the natural water springs and the lush palm trees.
Namib Select
This wine showcases a rich, deep red hue. On the nose, it exudes a vibrant green note of eucalyptus, which is swiftly complemented by the robust presence of red fruits such as cranberry, raspberry, and plum. Subtle hints of star anise and liquorice add complexity to the aroma. These enticing flavours of raspberry and star anise seamlessly continue on the palate. The wine maintains a medium-bodied profile and offers a promising aging potential of 3-5 years. This is a red wine that, as of 2021, presents itself as an approachable, easy-drinking option, making it an ideal companion for Mediterranean cuisine.
Directors Reserve
This wine boasts a deep red colour and presents fruity aromas. The sensory experience captures the essence of plum, raspberry, white pepper, and cranberry, reminiscent of a fruit cake. These fruity nuances are seamlessly mirrored on the palate, with raspberry taking centre stage in terms of flavour. The wine maintains a light to medium body and exhibits a promising aging potential of 3-5 years. As of 2021, this wine is an effortlessly enjoyable red wine that pairs exceptionally well with Mediterranean cuisine.
Shiraz
The Shiraz exhibits a profound, deep red hue, signaling its recent harvest. It entices the senses with pronounced notes of bold red fruits, encompassing black currant, cherry, and raspberry, along with an underlying essence of fruitcake and a delightful jammy quality. Subtle hints of rooibos provide added complexity to the aroma, and this rooibos character lingers on the palate, enriching the tasting experience. The wine maintains a light to medium body and offers a promising aging potential of 3-5 years, allowing for further development and maturation of its flavours and character.
Accommodation at Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate
Self-catering accommodation is offered in two luxury units, one which sleeps two with an ensuite bathroom, and the second sleeps four with a shared bathroom. Each unit features a kitchenette, a lounge, a patio and a braai area.
In addition, there are six rustic stone-built chalets with verandas. A tented camp, with eighteen private safari tents and shared ablution facilities, offers a true bushveld experience.
The whole of Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate runs on solar power, so there are no air conditioners, however, each room has a fan and mosquito shutters which allow for a cool breeze in hotter months.
The menu at the welcoming and homely restaurant features locally inspired flavours paired with a selection of Neuras and other award-winning wines.
Wi-Fi is available and the bar and swimming pool provide guests with a welcome cooling off spot after a day in the desert, and a great location enjoy sundowners overlooking the vineyards.
Activities
A drive through the Honey Canyon with drinks and snacks is a perfect way to end the day and watch the sunset.
The world renowned Sossusvlei Dunes, one of Namibia’s most iconic landmarks is just 80 kms away.
Guests may also enjoy a Cheetah Experience as they witness the cheetahs in their 35ha enclosure, and learn about their history, behaviour and why these cats are so precious to Namibia. These cheetahs have been rescued from conflict situations.
Conservation
Despite some of the harshest conditions in the world, Namibian Desert life is well adapted to the extremes of life and demonstrates the true resilience of the stunning flora and fauna of the Neuras Estate.
Their team of researchers work tirelessly to conserve the diverse and thriving eco system on the estate.
In addition to wine production, Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate’s projects range from logging their local frog species to Cheetah tracking and collaring.
As they specialise in cheetah and leopard research, volunteers are welcome to help in their conservation projects.
All in all, Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate is an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts, geologists, hikers, wine connoisseurs, and for those looking to get away from it all and just enjoy the tranquil seclusion of the peacefulness of nature.
Contact Details
For more information or to make a reservation call + 264 63 293 417
Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate may be found at Farm Neuras, No. 2 Maltahohe District, Namibia. Find them on Google Maps.
Facebook: @thenaankusecollection
