Mullineux
Mullineux is a beacon of excellence in winemaking in South Africa's vibrant Swartland region, known for its dedication to expressing the unique terroirs of this diverse landscape. Founded in 2007 by the passionate duo Chris and Andrea Mullineux, this winery quickly ascended to prominence, earning accolades both locally and internationally.
Chris and Andrea's journey began with extensive winemaking experiences in France, South Africa, and California. Their love for the ancient granite and schist soils of the Swartland inspired them to establish their own venture in this picturesque part of the Western Cape. Their belief in the region's potential has certainly paid off, as evidenced by Mullineux's impressive haul of awards, including over fifty 5-star ratings from Platter’s South African Wine Guide and being named Platter’s Winery of the Year five times by 2023. Andrea's individual accolades are equally impressive, having been named Wine Enthusiast’s 2016 International Winemaker of the Year and together with Chris, Tim Atkin’s South African Winemakers of the Year in 2016.
The Mullineuxs' winemaking philosophy is rooted in minimal intervention, allowing the natural qualities of the Swartland's terroirs to shine through. They collaborate closely with growers who adhere to sustainable farming practices and also cultivate their own vineyards on Roundstone Farm in Riebeeksrivier. In the cellar, they eschew additives, relying solely on natural yeasts and minimal sulphur, ensuring their wines are as pure and expressive as possible.
"Mullineux work with organic grapes, natural fermentation, no additions, low-no new oak, send wines to bottle unfined and unfiltered. They are leaders in the new wave of South African wine, showcasing fruit, old vineyards, great sites, transparency of winemaking, and eschewing the fancy image that many wineries have pursued in the wake of renewed global attention on the winemaking of South Africa."
- Mike Bennie (The Wine Front)
Mullineux is renowned for its diverse range of wines, from their classic Syrah and Chenin Blanc to their luxurious Straw Wine made from air-dried Chenin Blanc. Their single-terroir wines, in particular, highlight the incredible variety of the Swartland soils, with each bottle offering a unique glimpse into the region's rich geological tapestry.
With a name derived from the French word for 'Watermill', Mullineux's millstone emblem symbolizes their deep connection to the Swartland, known as South Africa's 'bread-basket'. This sense of place and dedication to authenticity permeates every aspect of their winemaking, making Mullineux not just a producer, but a storyteller of the Swartland's ancient soils and vibrant future.
Platter’s Winery of the Year an unprecedented five times in 2023, 2020, 2019, 2016 and 2014.
Wine Enthusiast’s 2016 International Winemaker of the Year.
2016 Chris & Andrea were Tim Atkin’s South African Winemakers of the Year.