Dalewood is situated on the picturesque Franschhoek-Simondium Road in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Cape of Good Hope, South Africa. The farm is surrounded by hectares of vineyard and world renowned wine estates. Rob Visser, second generation farmer is passionate about his stud Jersey herd. He is actively involved with every aspect of the farm. Dalewood has an eco-friendly approach to farming. The rotationally grazed Jersey herd spends each day on green pastures, which are precisely managed, beginning with the gentle nurturing of the biological life in the soil. No artificial fertilizers, insecticides or weed killers are used to boost these pastures.

The gorgeous, fawn-coloured, long-lashed Jersey cows on the lush pastures of Dalewood Farm all have an added sparkle in their eyes. And rightly so, as they are the first step in creating a string of award-winning cheeses. The herd descends from three matriarchs named Palua, Liefie and Bella. It is ‘closed’ and the entire breeding process is tightly controlled. The progeny are characterized by a number designating their place in the herd which includes a P, L or B symbol to identify from which of the three famous cows they are descended. It is said that grass fed cows produce milk which contains high levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), as well as omega 3. The wonderfully rich, cream coloured milk on Dalewood also indicates high levels of vitamin A; all invaluable for good health.

Dalewood Fromage is an integral part of Dalewood Farm. It is an artisanal farmstead operation producing cheese from the ground up with the goal to handcraft. The source is Dalewood's own Jersey milk which makes it a genuine ESTATE cheese. Dalewood's unique recipe was formulated by Rob Visser who studied Dairy Technology under the guidance of renowned South African Norman Robertson. After years of experimenting, time in France sniffing out traditional cheese making secrets and countless cheese tastings the Wineland range was launched - inspired by the magic and romance of the surrounding vineyards. The range of speciality cheese includes Brie, Camembert and Blue in different styles, shapes and sizes to suit any occasion. Last but not least is the Huguenot®; uniquely Dalewood, uniquely South African.

Although the farm is not yet open for tastings or sales, Dalewood is happy to sell directly by prior arrangement. Good to know Dalewood cheese can be made to order and ripened for any function or event.

To enhance flavour profile white mould cheese (Brie, Camembert & Blue) should be served at room temperature. Because of its eco friendly approach to farming Dalewood is able to produce a natural product with no preservatives, colourants or flavourants and suitable for vegetarians.

Dalewood cows never receive growth or milk production increasing hormones, neither do they receive any unnecessary antibiotics. Bottom line; the cows are happy and happy cows produce valuable, delicious milk, which in turn makes good cheese.

We hope you'll taste the difference!