Every winery has a different character and it is one of the things I love about visiting different farms. On arrival at Thelema recently, the last of the grapes were coming in, as they were nearing the end of the harvest. That wonderful smell of freshly pressed grapes is really heady! Thelema is situated in the Banhoek at the top of the Helshoogte Valley - right at the top just beyond Tokara. What a view! It is an iconic brand and has quietly been getting on with making superb wines, and it was a real privilege to be able to taste through the range, and there was not one wine that I did not enjoy! The Sutherland range is sourced from wines in the cool Elgin valley, only 9km from the cool ocean breezes. I loved the crisp Sauvignon Blanc The Thelema range comes from the vineyards on the South Easterly side of the Simonsberg Mountain. 530m above sea level with mainly south-facing slopes, possessing some of the highest elevations in Stellenbosch. My favourite of the day was their rich red blend - The Abbey - and I totally forgot to taste their Vin de Hel which I will need to go back for!