Klawer Wine Cellars: We Welcome our New Winemaker

He’s last career move was from OVK Keimoes toe Klawer Cellars & we are excited to have him on board!

Where were you born?
“I was born and raised in Brackenfell”

Where did you study?
“I went to Boland Landbou school in Paarl and I studied at Elsenburg college”

What attracted you to winemaking & when did you realize that you had a passion for winemaking?
“I honestly wanted to do this my whole life, I always had a passion for wine. For me, winemaking is expressing my personality and who I am. I can use my creativity to the fullest.”

Relaxing at home, or going away with friends for the weekend, what is your “go to drink”?
Without no doubt “ice cold Chardonnay”

Which cultivar fits your personality best & why? (If you could be any wine, what would you be?)
“Well, to most of the questions, my answer will be Chardonnay, but why you may ask. The answer to that is simple. Chardonnay is such a versatile cultivar. Some of the greatest MCC’s is made with Chardonnay. You can add a little wood to it or leave it, nice & unwooded. Just as you please”

What would you consider your greatest achievement as a winemaker?
With great satisfaction on his face “2018, the best year in my life as a winemaker. I was part of the team that won the Pietman Hugo trophy, the Sauvignon Blanc trophy & the best white blend at the Young Wine Makers Show.”

Do you have any varieties you prefer to work with and why?
“Except for Chardonnay, definitely Shiraz. It’s an elegant variety. Either you use it in a blend or on its own. There are so many components to this cultivar”

Over the past years, have you been influenced by any winemakers in particular?
“There’s really so many & it would not be fair to point out one or two. I’ve learned something new from each & every winemaker that crossed paths with me”

What is your winemaking philosophy? What would you like to achieve with the wine you’re making at Klawer wine cellars?
“The most important thing is to be able to make wine for different types of clients. Wine should be enjoyed, and everybody has their own wine preferences.”

Tell us something almost nobody knows about you?
“My guilty pleasure is popcorn and a buttery Chardonnay & yes, Chardonnay is my favorite wine!