De Krans Cape Tawny Gets a Glow-Up: Same Soul, Sleek New Look
If you’re a fan of rich, warming port-style wines (especially if you’re about to drizzle one over brownies… wink wink nudge nudge), then allow me to introduce you to the fresh new face of a South African classic: De Krans Wines’ port-style range, freshly decked out in elegant new labels that honour their heritage while welcoming a new generation of wine lovers.
A Legacy Poured into Every Bottle
Based in the heart of Calitzdorp; often called the “Port” Capital of South Africa; De Krans has been making waves in the fortified wine scene since the 1970s. But their roots go deeper, all the way back to 1890, when the Nel family first purchased land in the old “Buffelsvallei” (Buffalo Valley). Fittingly, the buffalo has long been their emblem—but now it takes centre stage in full-body glory on the new labels.
The first grapes were planted in 1936, originally for raisins and sweet wine. By 1964, a brand-new cellar was up and running, and De Krans quickly gained a reputation for crafting quality port-style wines, Muscat sweet wines, and even dry table wines.
Fast forward to today, and the current winemaking team is making the most of the unique Calitzdorp terroir, using it to craft top-notch Cape ports and a range of characterful table wines from Portuguese grape varieties like Tinta Barocca and Touriga Nacional.
This latest label makeover is more than just a glow-up. It’s a tribute to tradition, showcasing textured beige backgrounds, a hand-drawn buffalo, and rich colour capsules that hint at what lies within: Cape Ruby, Cape Tawny, Cape Vintage treasures just waiting to be uncorked.
Why the Change?
Since 2010, South African producers have been unable to use the word Port, leading to a clever workaround: Cape Ruby, Cape Vintage, and Cape Tawny now define our homegrown fortified wines. While the name may have changed, De Krans is staying true to what matters most: the quality inside the bottle.
Their updated label design aims to bring fortified wines into the spotlight for a younger, more curious audience while still pleasing the seasoned port-sippers among us. In short: same soul, new suit.
Spotlight: De Krans Limited Release Cape Tawny
This golden-hued beauty is a looker and an absolute fireplace sipper. Think notes of orange peel, toffee, roasted nuts, and fruitcake, blended from five to fifteen-year-old vintages. Aged to perfection in small old oak barrels, it’s the kind of wine that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
But there’s more to this tawny than what’s in the glass. The story behind it runs deep. The first vines at De Krans were planted back in 1936, primarily for raisins and sweet wine. Then in 1964, the current cellar was built, and that’s when things really took off. De Krans became renowned for its quality port-style wines, Muscat sweet wines, and later, dry table wines too.
Today, the winemaking team continues to honour this legacy while embracing innovation. With the unique Calitzdorp terroir and vines planted in shallow Karoo sand/clay, they produce world-class Cape ports and fascinating wines from Portuguese grape varieties like Tinta Barocca, Tinta Amarella, and Touriga Nacional. It’s a range built on heritage, terroir, and a love of the craft.
How De Krans Crafts Their Signature Cape Tawny
Selected bunches are handpicked mid to late February from carefully chosen vineyard blocks at 26° Balling. After destemming and crushing, the grapes are rapidly cooled in a small open fermenter and left to spontaneously ferment. Once the desired sugar level is reached, fermentation is halted by adding alcohol to the must. The skins are then pressed, and the wine ages gracefully in small 225-liter barrels. This Cape Tawny is expertly blended from vintages ranging between five and 15 years, resulting in its rich complexity and depth.
And yes—this Tawny pairs beautifully with desserts. Especially anything rich, nutty, or spiced (like those gooey chickpea brownies with chili chocolate glaze you’ll find here).
2025 Platter’s Wine Guide – 4.5 stars
Top 100 & Double Platinum Awards
National Wine Challenge 2024 (Incl Top 100 SA Wines)
92 out of 100 points – Tim Atkin (MW) –SA Wine Report 2024
93 out of 100 and Top 10 Dessert Wine – Investec Trophy Wine Show ‘24
Enjoyed best on its own by the fireplace or with hearty baked winter puddings, this Tawny truly embodies comfort in a glass. If that’s not reason enough to pour a glass, I don’t know what is.
The Range (RRP):
- Cape Pink – R115
- Premium Cape Ruby – R115
- Cape Vintage – R145
- Cape Tawny (Limited Release) – R240
- Cape Vintage Reserve – R380
Fun fact: This is the third label redesign from De Krans in the last year; proof they’re not just keeping up with the times, but leading the way.
Whether you’re sipping, baking, or simply admiring beautiful wine bottles, the De Krans port-style range is one to have on your radar (and in your pantry). Especially if you like your wine with a touch of history and a whole lot of heart. Learn more about De Krans