Oupa Willem

Beef, Lamb, Spicy food, Poultry

The 2019 wine grape crop is estimated at 1.4% smaller than 2018, shrinking the crop for the second consecutive year. 2019 represents a record low since 2005. A decline in area under vines and challenging weather conditions contributed to the smaller harvest. Although most regions received good rainfall during the season, the after-effects of the preceding three year drought was still visible and vineyards and soils will take some time to recover. Severe weather fluctuations during bud break and flowering, followed by cool windy conditions during set, contributed to less and uneven bunches and smaller berries.

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.