The Allesverloren Legacy
The excellence of Allesverloren wine is rooted in a love of the land and its vineyards. Few families have served as its custodian and been fortunate to pass intimate knowledge from generation to generation. Early records are unclear, so Allesverloren’s history dates to between 1696 and 1704, when the governor of the Cape bequeathed it to a widow, Cloete. This courageous woman was among the first settlers to venture into the inhospitable region now famous as the Swartland. These early people had limited means, with only the most rudimentary agricultural equipment and necessities to support themselves.
1704
Determination in the face of tragedy:
The name Allesverloren is a reflection of the history behind its wines. It originates from a pivotal moment in the family's past. In the 1700s, to buy tools or attend church, the family would undertake a long and difficult journey by waggon along rough roads to Stellenbosch. During one such trip in 1704, they returned to find their house destroyed and their farm in
ruins. In that moment of loss, they believed everything was gone. The Dutch words for "all is lost" "Allesverloren" were adopted as both a reminder of that difficult time and a symbol of resilience.
1806
Pioneers from the start:
By 1806, Allesverloren’s owners had harvested the estate's first wine grapes. And, over 150 years ago, this mantle was passed on to the Malan family. Its land holdings have increased to 227 hectares and its wines continue to earn international acclaim.
Allesverloren became first estate to press wine in the Swartland
1872
A new chapter:
Allesverloren’s wine legacy began in 1872 with the arrival of the Malan family, led by Daniël Francois Malan. When he purchased the land, it was primarily used for growing wheat. However, it was the vineyards that truly captured his passion, and before long, his wines gained widespread popularity and demand.
1960
A global mindset and pioneer in planting climate-change cultivars:
Daniël first crafted a fortified wine, which evolved into the estate's flagship port-style wine, now known as Allesverloren Cape Vintage.
The Malans of Allesverloren were pioneers in introducing Portuguese grape varieties to South Africa, and they played a key role in elevating the Swartland region, helping local wineries gain international recognition.
1986
Pioneer in the development of the Swartland Wine District:
In 1986, Allesverloren was a founding member of the Swartland Wine Route, now known as the Swartland Wine and Olive Route.The farm is located in the Swartland wine region of South Africa.
The KWV, then still a regulatory co-operative, supported the initiative and
made funding available for its development. The organisation established to administer these funds among Swartland producers was its eponymous Wine Trust, founded on March 6, 1986. The first meeting took place at the Swartland Wine Cellar.
2003
Fifth-generation Malan cellar master, Danie, returns to Allesverloren:
After graduating from the Elsenburg Institute for Agricultural Training in
1987, Fanie Malan’s son, Danie, honed his skills under his father’s
guidance. In 1990, just three years later, Danie became the cellar master
and took over as owner of Allesverloren from his father in 2003.
Together with his wife, Juanita, and their children, Danie has helped the
estate continue to thrive. He inherited a deep passion for the Swartland, the
Allesverloren farm, and especially the red wines that are perfectly suited to
the region.
Danie humbly credits the success of their wines to the unique terroir of
Swartland’s hills and valleys.
2010
Allesverloren wins Sweden’s highest wine award:
IIn 2010, Danie Malan, fifth-generation winemaker at Allesverloren, won
Sweden's International Producer of the Year award. This was the first time
a South African cellar master received the Golden Glass award at the
competition.
Although Sweden is one of South Africa's major export markets, this is the
first time in the 53-year history of the award that it has gone to a South
African winemaker.
2024
Brand Rejuvenated for Future generations:
In 2024, Allesverloren Wine Farm proudly begins a new chapter with a
complete brand rejuvenation. While we honour our rich history, we’ve
updated our identity to connect with the next generation of wine
enthusiasts, all while staying true to the legacy that has shaped our farm.
Our new branding reflects our dedication to innovation, sustainability, and
the enduring quality of our wines. Every detail—from our logo to our
labels and packaging—has been thoughtfully reimagined to blend tradition
with forward-thinking progress. This rebrand is more than just a visual
update; it’s a reaffirmation of our commitment to crafting wines that tell
the story of the land, the people, and the passion behind Allesverloren.
Looking ahead, we’re ensuring that the legacy of our farm will continue to
thrive for generations to come.