The Baleia wine range gets a new look

The Joubert family has launched a new look for its Baleia wine range that will “wow” consumers both visually and in the glass.

The brand’s new corporate identity and wine packaging were unveiled at a recent gala event at the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa in Cape Town. During the evening, guests were treated to their newly bottled Inge Chardonnay 2014, Erhard Pinot Noir 2013 and Sebastian 2013 as paired with cuisine specially prepared to compliment these wines.

The story behind the name

Following their inaugural harvest on the farm Dassieklip in 2011, a brand name was needed to market their range of wines and they suitably came up with Baleia Wines. It was inspired by the Portuguese word for whale and is directly related to Dassieklip’s proximity to St. Sebastian Bay, affectionately referred to as “South Africa’s whale nursery” due to the annual presence of large numbers migratory Southern Right whales. It is also one of the best land vantage points from where to view these gentle giants of the ocean.

The new look

Jan-Hendrik Joubert, owner at Baleia Wines said: “Many things have changed since we launched our brand in 2011 and we had felt it time to change our look and feel as to match our evolved identity,” says .

The new label, designed by Anthony Lane Design Consultancy, includes the Joubert family crest and the word Baleia.

baleia_new_labels

“Few truly realise the role the old Portuguese mariners had played in the establishment of the Cape wine culture,” explains the Anthony Lane team. “Not only did they pave the way for trade between Europe and the East, but in doing so, they also established the route the early Dutch and later French settlers followed bringing their winemaking traditions along. By focussing more on the word Baleia, we acknowledge the contribution made by the Portuguese.”

“We see this as a sustainable and credible differentiator for Baleia Wines. The meaning of the name being ‘whale’ can be part of the communication but not the sole associative element. We feel that a link to the Joubert family gives great sense of provenance and credibility particularly as they are farmers first and foremost,” says the Anthony Lane team.

Inside the bottle

Following careful consideration, the Joubert family planted Baleia Wines’ first block of Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Tempranillo in 2009, with Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay following suit. As one of the first wine producers in their region, this pioneering estate learnt many valuable lessons. They soon realised that their specific terroir offers ideal conditions for the cultivation of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc and in 2011 they expanded further focusing on these respective cultivars.

Baleia Wines cellar is conveniently located next to the N2, approximately 1km from Riversdale towards Mossel Bay. Do pop in when you are in the region and pay them a visit.