Empire of Dirt, Sauvignon Blanc 2025

Empire of Dirt is a collaboration between winemaker Johan Meyer and Indigo founder Ben Henshaw. Johan, a star of the new South African wine scene, has developed strong relationships with some of the best grape growers across the Cape over the years, and as a result he has gained access to some of the region’s best fruit. Noticing a gap in the UK market for artisanal, well-made South African Chenin at an accessible price, they decided to use this fruit to create the first Force Celeste.

The success of this wine has given way to several additions to the family, plus a ‘Mother Rock’ label, focusing on discovering exceptional parcels of well-farmed vines grown on a variety of soil types and vinified as simply as possible. These are terroir-focused wines made to offer drinkability and enjoyment, and it doesn’t hurt that the labels are beautiful.

Johan recently purchased land in Picketberg in the north of the Swartland. He has built a winery and planted vines here - Rhone varietals on the warmer north facing slope and Pinot Noir and Chardonnay on the south slope. This cooler, high altitude site is the new HQ for Mother Rock and JH Meyer Wines, he's hoping to have his own fruit for the 2023 vintage. Ultimately, Mother Rock is about showcasing the best and purest expression of South Africa’s diverse terroir.