Solo Wines

The name “Solo” reflects Carl’s independent venture, but also the “solitary” excellence of the specific vineyards, rows and varietals he selects.

Summary

If you’ve followed South African wine for any length of time, Carl needs no introduction. After 32 years at the helm of Hartenberg Estate, he has become one of the most respected figures in the industry. And now he’s pouring all of that into Solo, something smaller, something more niche, something different. It’s Carl stepping away from the ‘big estate’ machine to do something purely for the love of the craft.

He is fiercely independent here, no partners, no boards, just a master winemaker hunting down micro-parcels of fruit that get him excited.

What we love about this project is the lack of compromise. Carl isn’t chasing volume or trends; he’s looking for the expression of “power and grace.” Whether it’s finding Merlot in the semi-desert heights of the Tradouw Highlands or sourcing Cabernet from the weathered Koffieklip soils of Bottelary, he is obsessed with site and more so healthy vines and how to make sure they produce the best possible wine. The wines are produced in tiny quantities, just 1,300 bottles on each of these first release wines with the goal of producing wines that aren’t just great now, but carry a “guarantee” to still be singing 20 years from now.

His philosophy remains rooted in the ‘Golden Era’ of winemaking: a commitment to structure, longevity, and an unwavering refusal to rush perfection.

It’s a rare thing to see a master with 38 vintages under his belt this energised. As he told us, “I’ve always believed we haven’t produced the best wine we can yet…”

Carl is a wonderful addition to the Ex Animo portfolio, he bridges the gap between the ‘Old Guard’ mastery and the modern ‘New Wave’ spirit of independence. To have a CWG master focusing on micro-parcels is a win for anyone who values pedigree and soul in equal measure.

Buy Solo wines