Oupa Willem

Beef, Lamb, Spicy food, Poultry

The 2018 harvest had numerous challenges and resulted in one of the smallest crops in more than a decade. This was because of the prolonged drought - the worst in over 100 years - accompanied by water restrictions and frost damage early on in the season. This also meant that winter arrived later but at least it was cold enough to break through the dormancy. The fluctuation of temperature was also noticeable from day to night, which also impacted the wine making. The harvest happened mid to end April instead of end March/beginning April, leaving us winemakers in anticipation for a further 14 days or so. The dry weather had some advantages as vines were healthier, with little or no pests and diseases. The berries started to bud much later and were much smaller than usual which affected the end result of total tonnage of harvested grapes. This lead to smaller, more refined, more concentrated wine making and intense flavors. We also noticed the uneven flowering and berry set was common due to the windy conditions, cold periods and precipitation in most of the areas. After slow shoot growth initially, vines picked up the pace as temperatures rose towards the end of November. Although December and January were hot, with temperatures reaching 35°C, none of the usual heat waves were present. The rest of the growing season and harvest were notably cooler than normal. By the end of February the nights became cooler, which was beneficial for color and flavor formation in the cultivars that ripen later in the season. Vineyards were overall healthier, berries were overall more concentrated and the wines made from this vintage more intense and unique due to the drought and poor weather conditions. This was a vintage that won’t soon be forgotten.

Fermented naturally using 40% whole bunches.

Naudé Wines is the culmination of a journey that began more than 30 years ago. Since that first harvest I’ve worked all over the world hoping to craft wines that tell a story of time and place. I love the diversity we have in South Africa. Not just of the people but the soils the microclimates and the wine varietals that thrive under their own unique conditions. I’m fortunate to have been introduced to a few of these vineyards and work with some of the wonderful grapes that they produce many of these from certified old vines. The grapes on these vines are storied complex and unique. Each year they represent something different – whatever nature allows them – and with any luck I don’t get in the way.