Our Story – esc

A story rooted in friendship and South African living

The partnership of Corné Richards, CJ Venter, David Nieuwoudt, Tian Claassens and Dawid Upton has since grown with the addition of Andri and Colleen Wiese.

Where curiosity became a calling

Escape began as a shared vision between a close group of friends — entrepreneurs, creatives, sportsmen and adventurers who have explored every corner of South Africa. Drawn to the quiet beauty of the Walker Bay, they saw possibility in a stretch of barren land and the chance to create something meaningful from it.

With courage, imagination and a deep appreciation for South African living, the foundations of escape were set into motion.

Laying the foundations

While architects, engineers and viticulturists were hard at work shaping the property, the first defining elements of the farm took form. Proteas, indigenous fynbos and vineyards were planted, the beginnings of a landscape shaped by regenerative practices and a deep respect for the land.

From the outset, care was taken to protect and promote the original fynbos, allowing the farm to function as a living wildlife corridor where nature moves freely and biodiversity thrives. Today, these vineyards are mature enough to bear harvest-ready fruit, and the story of the farm continues to unfold, with exciting plans ahead as the land reveals its full potential.

Proteas: The soul of the farm

Proteas were among the very first things planted on the property, flourishing along the riverbanks and throughout the farm. Their presence is more than decorative — it reflects the identity, resilience and cultural richness of South Africa.

The protea fields are managed with the same attention to detail and respect for the land that define the wine side of the business. Their cultivation supports local industry, celebrates a uniquely South African emblem, and reinforces escape’s connection to the land it calls home.

Alongside viticulture, we also grow commercial proteas, in partnership with a major international retailer that supports local farming and honours the natural heritage of the region.

Crafted through collaboration

At Escape, collaboration is central to how we create. Our wines are crafted in partnership with David Nieuwoudt and his acclaimed team from Cederberg Wines, respected locally and internationally for their mastery of cool-climate terroirs. In their cellar, our grapes are transformed into expressive, modern wines that reflect both place and precision.

These relationships shape who we are: grounded, connected, and proudly South African. As the vineyard-to-bottle process is overseen by David Nieuwoudt and his team, their craftsmanship and vision guide every decision, matching terroir to style and creating wines that both delight and intrigue.