Winter has truly settled upon the Klein Karoo. In the vineyards and cellar, activities have shifted into a lower gear as the 2026 vintage lays quiet, slowly evolving in the barrels and tanks.
As many of you know, severe early winter weather has recently impacted large areas of the Western Cape. While we are accustomed to the usual winter seasonality of our region, this year has brought extreme challenges that have hit small businesses, farmers, agricultural workers, and the hospitality sector incredibly hard.
Combined with broader economic pressures—from rising fuel and living costs to general market uncertainty—running a small, independent business right now is a true test of endurance. Most of these factors are entirely beyond our control. However, at Karusa, we choose to respond with grit, a can-do attitude, and a focus on the positives. Nature has blessed us with ample rain, the landscape is looking beautiful, and our sunny winter days remain absolutely magical.
The Heart of the Challenge: Our Eco-System
Our greatest local hurdle at the moment is the major landslide on the R328 Cango Route near the Cango Caves. The resulting temporary closures of the Caves and our neighbors at Wilgewandel have heavily disrupted the natural flow of tourism. The hospitality ecosystem in Oudtshoorn relies on open, free-flowing roads—and with both Meiringspoort and the Cango Route severely affected, local trade has taken a significant knock.
We are optimistic that the Cango Route and the Caves will be fully reopened by the end of June. In the meantime, the ecosystem needs your support. We warmly invite you to visit us and back the incredible accommodation and activity businesses in our valley—we all need it now more than ever.
Warm Up with Our Winter Exclusives
If you are in the area, our cellar door is open and waiting. Come enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, stunning scenery, and our winter menu—ranging from artisanal pizzas and hearty platters to wraps and tapas. Everything, of course, is perfectly paired with our exceptional selection of Estate wines, craft beers, and micro-distilled gin.
To thank you for your ongoing loyalty, we want to remind you of two incredible offers:
- Exclusive Wine Club Special: Get an incredible 50% off cellar-door pricing on our Karusa Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 and the Karusa Terre Noire Syrah 2019. These are bold, structured winter reds at an unbeatable price—perfect for stocking your winter racks.
- Weekday Pizza Special: Enjoy any 2 pizzas and 2 glasses of wine for just R300. This offer is valid from Monday to Friday and runs until 26 June.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Vintage
There is plenty to look forward to. Our 2026 vintage wines are scheduled for bottling in August, with an official release set for the end of that month. As always, our valued club members will receive absolute priority first-access to these new releases.
How You Can Support Us Today
Even if you cannot make the drive to Oudtshoorn this month, you can stand by us from the comfort of your home. Please consider supporting our independent estate by shopping online. Every order directly helps us sustain our team and our farm through this challenging season.
We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued friendship and support. Stay strong, stay resilient, and let’s make the absolute best of the season ahead.
Warm regards,
Jacques & Saretha Conradie
Think Karoo. Drink Karusa
