In July 1983, the McLean Family Trust purchased the old fruit farm Thelema, situated at the summit of the Helshoogte Pass, approximately six kilometers outside Stellenbosch. This acquisition was the culmination of a long search by Gyles and Barbara Webb for that rare location where exceptional wines could be made, as this was their sole purpose. The farm comprises 157 hectares of land on the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountains. The elevation ranges from 370 to 640 meters above sea level on primarily south-facing slopes, making Thelema one of the highest and arguably coolest wine farms in the Stellenbosch area. Although wine was made on the farm in the early 2000s and table grapes were produced until the late 1960s, there were no vines on the farm at the time of purchase. The 25 hectares of cultivation consisted of plums, apples, and pears in various stages of generation. The farm's neglected state didn't detract from its charm—there are spectacular views of the Simonsberg, Drakenstein, and Jonkershoek Mountains, and the farm is dotted with enormous oak trees. However, it took a tremendous effort to transform Thelema into a wine farm.
The winemaker combines techniques and experience from both the "Old World" and the "New World." The red wines are vinified traditionally. After fermentation, the wine matures for 18 months in French oak barrels, 25 percent of which are replaced annually.
The full-bodied Thelema Cabernet Sauvignon from cult winemaker Gyles Webb is complex and elegant, delighting with seductive aromas of ripe blackberries, dark chocolate, and mint. On the palate, this Thelema Cabernet Sauvignon offers beautiful balance, a soft finish, classic fruit flavors of blackcurrant, red fruit, juicy berry notes, a long, resonant finish, and fine tannins. A dream of a Cabernet.
