Baboon Rock Wines Protect Chacma Baboons
You take a slow sip of your wine, gaze across the vineyard at golden light dancing on fynbos leaves and somewhere on that land, a troop of Chacma baboons moves quietly through the vines.
At La Petite Ferme, we believe you should never feel like an outsider here. You are part of the land, part of its stories, and with every bottle of our Baboon Rock wines, you are helping preserve a living symbol of the land’s wild story.
Why Are the Chacma Baboons Important?
For centuries, Chacma baboons have roamed the Cape Winelands, shaping the natural rhythm of the region. Archaeological findings show their presence stretching back thousands of years, living alongside early communities. Today, they remain part of the Franschhoek landscape, navigating vineyards, mountains and fynbos – a reminder of the fragile balance between humans and wildlife.
How Our Baboon Rock Wines Help Protect Chacma Baboons
In 2012, our estate faced a delightful, yet challenging, dilemma: a troop of wild baboons raided our Chardonnay grapes. Rather than wage war, we embraced the encounter. Out of this “grape raid,” we launched Baboon Rock Unwooded Chardonnay, sourcing grapes from Robertson and crafting a fresh, vibrant wine in stainless steel.
Over time, our range grew: today we also offer Baboon Rock Grenache Noir, a light, cherry-bright red that complements the Chardonnay. The recent rebranding of the range features a hand-sketched Chacma baboon against a subtle fynbos halo — a symbol of life, land, and coexistence.
The heart of the initiative lies in our partnership with Baboon Matters Trust. We donate a portion of every Baboon Rock wine sale to their vital work in Chacma baboon conservation. Baboon Matters has been at the frontline for over 25 years, championing non-lethal, science-based strategies to resolve human–baboon conflict.
Through this collaboration, Baboon Matters is training our team in best practices for coexisting. For instance, how to discourage grape raids without harming the animals, and how to monitor troop movements responsibly. Next time you visit, you may glimpse a troop roaming the slopes. Raise your glass in silent thanks.
Why This Matters To You
Why is this vital? In South Africa today, human encroachment, habitat loss, and conflict mean that baboons are sometimes shot, poisoned, or captured. In one monitored troop of 22, three individuals were killed in a single month amid conflicts with humans.
Your wine isn’t just a drink; it is a small act of solidarity in a fragile ecosystem. When you buy a bottle, you join a movement. With Baboon Rock wine, you enjoy elegant, terroir-driven flavour while contributing to species protection, and you instantly become part of a precious conservation story within South Africa’s winelands.
Together, we are redefining ethical luxury. Wine, dine and stay at La Petite Ferme today.
FAQs and Answers
1. What makes Baboon Rock Wines unique at La Petite Ferme?
Baboon Rock Wines are inspired by the natural presence of Chacma baboons around our vineyards and support wildlife conservation through every bottle sold.
2. How do Baboon Rock Wines contribute to baboon conservation?
A portion of each sale goes directly to the Baboon Matters Trust, which promotes humane and science-based solutions for coexistence between humans and baboons.
3. Why were the Baboon Rock Wines created?
They were created after a troop of Chacma baboons raided our Chardonnay grapes, inspiring us to celebrate coexistence instead of conflict through wine.
4. What varieties are included in the Baboon Rock range?
The range currently includes Baboon Rock Unwooded Chardonnay and Baboon Rock Grenache Noir, both crafted for freshness and easy enjoyment.
5. How does La Petite Ferme work with Baboon Matters Trust?
We collaborate through education, training, and funding to promote ethical wildlife management and to protect Chacma baboon populations in the region.
6. Are Chacma baboons endangered in South Africa?
While not yet endangered, their numbers are declining due to habitat loss and human conflict, making conservation partnerships like ours essential.
7. Can visitors see baboons when visiting La Petite Ferme?
Yes, visitors may spot baboon troops on the surrounding slopes, as our estate forms part of their natural movement corridor in Franschhoek.
8. How can customers support Chacma baboon protection?
By purchasing Baboon Rock Wines or visiting La Petite Ferme, customers directly support conservation and awareness efforts for Chacma baboons.