Luddite

Meet Penny + Niels Verburg

Location: Bot River, South Africa

Farming Practices: Regenerative

Luddite Wines is a fiercely independent winery in Bot River, South Africa, founded by Niels and Penny Verburg. From the beginning, their mission has been clear: to make honest, soulful wines with as little interference as possible. The name “Luddite” is no accident - it’s a proud rejection of over-engineered winemaking in favor of intuition, patience, and respect for nature.

After years of winemaking abroad, Penny & Niels returned to South Africa with a winemaking vision rooted in simplicity: native yeasts, minimal sulphur, and no fancy gadgets. Penny has shaped the farm with a green thumb and a deep commitment to sustainable farming. Today, their daughter Alice has joined Niels in the cellar, bringing fresh energy and a shared reverence for the craft. Together, they produce wines that are bold, expressive, and unmistakably Bot River - each bottle a reflection of family, place, and principle.

Take a sip home with you!