Diemersfontein has belonged to the Sonnenberg family for 3 generations, dating back to the early 1940s. David’s grandfather, Max, bought the 183 hectare farm, which lies in the shadow of the majestic Hawekwa Mountains and boasts a panoramic view of both Du Toit’s Kloof and Bains’ Kloof mountain ranges.

Central to the working wine estate, is the original family manor house, better known as the ‘Groot Huis’. The magnificent gardens were designed by Davids mother, Cecilia Sonnenberg and are reminiscent of an era when gracious living and tranquility were the order of the day. Displaying an abundance of roses and azaleas and set amongst beautiful old trees, this venue has become much sought after for weddings and other special occasions.

Max Sonnenberg, together with his son Richard (Dick), were the co-founders of Woolworths South Africa and also members of Parliament during the Jan Smuts Government. He and his family used Diemersfontein as a country retreat and during the war years, Italian prisoners of war were housed in the farm cottages.

During the 1950s, Richard took over from his father and became more involved in the farming operations. His wife Cecilia, a well-known Cape Town actress and producer, was the co-founder of Maynardville Open Air Theatre – famous for its Shakespearian productions.