We, the KWV Wines bloggers have just received this harvest update from our wine team, Thys, Johann and Cobus. 

Overview: Cobus van Graan - KWV Viticulturist:  

Season was characterized by mild weather till the end of February. Mild daytime and cooler night temperatures were very favorable for slow ripening and the development of berry flavors. During this period we were truly able to harvest when we felt that the fruit was ripe and subsequently the white and red wines harvested in this period are showing well at this early stage. 

As from February 27th both day and night temperatures increased and the grape intake increased dramatically. The challenge was to harvest grapes at the optimum point and the producers and winery alike put in a fantastic effort to achieve this goal. 

The 2010 vintage will be smaller than predicted due to severe wind damage and high disease pressure early in the season. 

White wine: Johann Fourie - KWV Winemaker

The 2010 vintage was delayed quite a bit, even for white grapes. The first grapes that we received, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay display typical base wine characteristics and are destined for our Method Cap Classique Sparkling wines and might develop to be our highlight of the 2010 vintage. 

The intake of other grape varieties was inconsistent, making this a rather difficult harvest. Sauvignon blanc, Chenin blanc and Chardonnay show high potential in delivering unique wines with great characteristics. Fruity Chenin Blanc’s, elegant Chardonnay’s and a combination of grassy, tropical Sauvignon Blanc are expected. 

Red Wine: Thys Loubser - KWV Winemaker:

The quality of red grapes is very promising for the 2010 harvest. Yields are lower due to the cool conditions during November and December 2009. The heat wave during February impacted on the intake of grapes, as all varieties ripened simultaneously. Currently Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon are still being received. Overall the grape quality is very good and displaying a good colour. Merlot is showing particular potential for this harvest.

We’d like to introduce you to Unathi Montshongo, one of the KWV Viticulturists. Unathi is originally from Umtata, in the Eastern Cape, South Africa – but it was a few years later that her love affair with winemaking began at Stellenbosch University where she completed her B.Sc.Agric. with Oenology and Viticulture. She later furthered her education with an Honours in Viticulture and a Certificate in Business Communication.