Harvest season has swung around again, and Boschendal Cellar Master, Jacques Viljoen, believes it’s going to be another great season. Viljoen says industry-wide drought recovery is well underway, with water-wise practices fostering future fitness. In terms of trends, sustainability is top of mind, along with terroir. Here, Viljoen delves into some of the secrets this harvest season holds – from power supply challenges to top vineyard tech.

It is often said that a good chef creates art in the kitchen and magic in your mouth.  This was indeed the case when we were treated to the culinary stylings of the talented Chef Wandile Mabaso at the recent launch of the exclusive Business Day Most Wanted Club.  The launch was held in collaboration with some of the most coveted local and international luxury brands. 

We are delighted to have returned to the Winter Sculpture Fair this year with a showcase of our most popular wines, including our classic Demi Sec Cap Classique, Chardonnay Pinot Noir, Vin de Or, and our newest Boschendal wine – Nicolas 2016.  

Nicolas 2016 is a blend brimming with character, with each component outstanding in its own right which together creates something exceptional. Shiraz, a signature variety for Boschendal, adds intrigue and depth with spicy notes. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot provide a classical structure which complements the beautiful deep colour and vibrant red fruit provided by the Malbec. While the Merlot enhances the fruit profile and Cabernet Franc elaborates on the spicy richness of the Shiraz.

Our dear friend and co-creator Kefilwe Mabote and her mother Dorothy lived their most inspired lives with us and The Blue Train in the lead up to Mother’s Day in May. Kefilwe summed up the special experience beautifully:

At Boschendal we are very proud to be one of the pioneers of Méthode Cap Classique. In fact, we were the second South African wine estate to produce an MCC – our first was bottled in the 1980s. Jean le Long Prestige Cuvée Vintage is the stunning result of four decades of refinement. In fact, Michael Oliver called it “most perfect example of this Champagne style.”

On April 27th, the Sowetan women’s club celebrated their freedom with a premium rooftop event capped with a keynote address by Connie Ferguson. The club continues to empower ambitious and aspirational women; while creating a networking platform to learn and grow from other like-minded women in fun and interactive spaces. Boschendal was delighted to join the festivities, sponsoring the event with our fine selection of Methode Cap Classiques.

It was crowned The Best White Wine in South Africa. It scored 95 points in the Tim Atkin report. It was named the Best Chardonnay in SA – twice. It won the title of being the Best Elgin Chardonnay.

Autum ushers in cooler afternoons. And as we revel in the last of the summer, our chefs have crafted special pairings for the perfect afternoon picnic featuring our award-winning Elgin Chardonnay, Brut NV Cap Classique and Black Angus blends.  With a strong emphasis on intensity of flavour and mouthfeel, this would be the ideal way to send-off an eventful summer.

Summertime and the living is inspired, especially when an afternoon includes scrumptious salads paired with delectable wines!