It all began with a vision
When Adrian and Birgit Bührer took ownership of Saxenburg in 1989, the farm — and South Africa as a nation — was in dire need of rejuvenation. Thanks to their grit and unflappable perseverance, they tenaciously stuck to their vision.
They traded their familiar surroundings of Switzerland for a dilapidated homestead in the Cape Winelands. While they brought a sweeping change to the estate, the success of the farm is thanks to the entire team.
“We set off in 1989 with a vow to become one of the best Shiraz producers in South Africa. Today we can proudly say that we’ve achieved so much more.”
First Custodians
Adrian and Birgit Bührer
Bührer Family
Adrian and Birgit with children Fiona, Raphaela, Vincent and Stella
Adrian Bührer
Saxenburg Vineyards
Current Custodians
Fiona and Vincent Bührer
Fiona and Vincent are the second-generation Bührer Family custodians of Saxenburg Wine Estate.
They were both born in Switzerland but spent most of their childhood at Saxenburg with their three siblings. Inevitably Saxenburg had woven itself into their DNA They now run the winery together.
Both Fiona and Vincent’s ambition is to showcase the incredible Syrah from Saxenburg and to shine a light on the Polkadraai Hills appellation in Stellenbosch – as it is one of the most exceptional terroirs in South Africa.
Together with the passionate Saxenburg team, they produce thought-provoking wines that will create special Saxenburg moments for all wine drinkers.
Our Guinea Fowl
The heart, the mind and the soul of Saxenburg
While they may not be the most regal of animals, the three guinea fowl that adorn our emblem have become symbolic of our philosophy at Saxenburg.
Found in great numbers in the region, they represent a heart which burns with the passion consistently creating the finest wine year after year; the mind, which keeps the heart in check by making the best, most informed decision at every juncture; and lastly – the soul, which binds knowledge and passion together.
A brief history of Saxenburg
(2020) Shiraz / Syrah Story
Decanter Gold Medal and 95 Points for the Saxenburg Shiraz Select 2015 and WineMag.co.za Top 10 Shiraz for the Private Collection Syrah 2017.
(2018) First Class
Saxenburg Shiraz Select is served on Swiss Air First Class flights
(2017) Quality Driven
Replanting of a large portion of the vineyard focusing on Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay.
(2016) 2nd Generation
Vincent and Fiona Bührer take over the management at Saxenburg, becoming the second generation of Bührer Family members to take the reins of the business.
(2015) Guinea Fowl Rebrand
New Guinea Fowl packaging released.
(2008) Old Mutual Trophy
Private Collection Merlot 2005 wins the Old Mutual Trophy
(2007) IWSC Trophy
The Private Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 wins best Cabernet Sauvignon in the world at the prestigious IWSC and the much-lauded Warren Winiarski trophy.
(2003) Top Shiraz SA
Top Shiraz SA achievement. We also implement brand new packaging of the wines to set the standard for the Saxenburg presentation going forward.
(1996) Wine Spectator 100
First South African wine in the Wine Spectator 100, with our Private Collection Shiraz 1993.
(1993) Awards Succession
5 double gold Veritas and General Smuts award.
(1991) New Roots
90% of the wine estate replanted, focusing on Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay.
(1989) 1st Generation
Adrian and Birgit Bührer purchased Saxenburg in 1989. Their vision allowed them to look past the neglect and they sprung into action to develop the potential of the farm. Despite the years of renovations that lay ahead, the Bührer family uprooted their life in Switzerland to take residence in the manor house and ushered in a new era for the now.
(1980 – 1989) A Potential Mine
Between September 1980 and June 1989, Peninsula Quarries Limited owned the farm for the purpose of mining. Fortunately mining rights were never granted. during this period the vineyards were neglected and the manor house fell into disrepair.
(1701 – 1989) Changes in Ownership
According to official records, the farm Saxenburg changed ownership 37 times between 1701 and 1989. During this time the Cape Colony saw the disintegration of the VOC, the British occupation, and the Anglo-Boer War as well as the events that established South Africa as a sovereign union and later a republic.
(1701) The Manor House
The Saxenburg homestead was built and had uncommon features for the time. The stoep (veranda) covered only one-third of the façade, with a high flight of stairs leading up to it. The front door did not boast a fanlight, which was a common feature at the time and the gable was considered unique with its flowing, understated outline.
(1693 –1699) Joachim Sax
Joachim Sax was granted land from the VOC under the conditions applicable to freemen. Among these rules were: A burgher (freeman) could receive as much land as he could develop in three years; No tobacco was to be cultivated; Indigenous plants and trees were protected and felled trees had to be replaced by planting another.
(1693)The Start
Officially proclaimed in 1693, Saxenburg is one of the oldest farms in South Africa.