Backsberg

As South Africa’s first carbon-neutral winery, Backsberg has made significant environmental investments on the property, including the completion of a run-off water reclamation system for irrigation ponds, the promotion of biodiversity through the planting of thousands of trees for mulching, wildlife habitat and conservation areas for birds and bees to work in harmony with mother nature. To ensure the property remains carbon-neutral, the estate is voluntarily audited by an independent, third-party company. I spoke with Simon Back, who is still involved with grower operations and continues to drive sustainability in the vineyards, with the vision to bring the growers to become carbon neutral. With DGB having its own environmental innovations and social empowerment programs, it’s no wonder DGB and the Back family are on the same page regarding sustainability and environmental practices. Although I am not the most overt fan of kosher wines in general, the Backsberg kosher wines are among the best I have tried in the category; I find the wines in their new “Unorthodox” range to be delightful. While Backsberg wines are not the most sought-after, expensive or extravagant in South Africa, these wines offer a range of sturdy, well-made expressions in various styles and price points. They prove that wine can be made in a value-driven style that delivers a quality wine drinking experience yet still be good to the environment at the same time. If Backsberg can do it with their wide range of quality and styles, it begs the question, “What is everyone else’s excuse?”

After fleeing from his home in Lithuania during turbulent times in the early 1900s, C.L. Back established the Backsberg estate in 1916, an 80-hectare property located on the slope of the Simonsberg Mountain in the Paarl region of South Africa. Backsberg was owned and operated by the Back family until 2021, when it was purchased by DGB — one of South Africa's largest independent wine and spirit producers and distributors. Nevertheless, third- and fourth-generation family members Michael Back and his son, Simon Back, remain steadfast environmental warriors and conservationists, and Simon continues as a director of the new Backsberg Family Wines. Strong family values, forward-thinking innovations and holistic thoughtfulness have led the Back family to create a wide range of products, including kosher wines, brandy, sparkling and still wines, including everyday-drinking and premium-quality wines. A WWF Conservation Champion as well as South Africa’s first carbon-neutral winery, Backsberg continues to lead the charge in the conservation of water, energy and wildlife. The Back family remains innovators and mentors to the next generation of growers, so that they may also realize their carbon neutrality, leaving behind a sustainable future, both environmentally and socio-economically.