Pars Babelas – Words from the Cellar Master at Hermanuspietersfontein

Today, exactly 150 days ago, felt like the first day of the rest of my life.

Day one at Hermanuspietersfontein was like a breath of fresh air while the welcoming smell of the cellar made me feel at home right away. And so my wine journey continues …

Getting up at the crack of dawn – everyday – so I could familiarize myself with a special piece of earth named Sondagskloof was something I was an exciting prospect.

An exciting and challenging prospect: the start of a new relationship – to rekindle some of the small and intricate details of winemaking. The harmonious expression – captured by its cool climate, the maritime influence and diversity of soil – is what makes our Sondagskloof. The cool climate is responsible for the difference between day and night temperatures – all of which play a pivotal role in the aroma and flavour profiles of our wines.

The prospect of getting my hands dirty and to bring to fruition some of the ideas I’ve been mulling over, and to learn new ways, present a chance in a lifetime.

Winemaking is an artful and evolving science. While no harvest comes without its challenges when with dealing wine styles, people’s tastes and their relationships of old one should never take oneself too seriously.

Having accepted the winemaking baton and realising everybody is looking at you with question marks in their eyes conjures up a strange thrill.

The lingering potential of our Afrikaans named brand holds great excitement. I’m thrilled and humbled to be part of the team as Skapie prepares to lead us into our second decade of surprises, friendships, temptation and fun!

As for the questioning looks. Well, nothing is broken therefor nothing needs fixing.

So, moenie warrie nie, watch net!