LIFE BY LEXUS 26


REYNEKE WINES, STELLENBOSCH


Johan Reyneke isn’t one to blow his own trumpet, despite his entry in the latest


Platter’s Guide garnering rave reviews. For this passionate viticulturist (and keen surfer), who farms off the Old Polkadraai Rd on the outskirts of Stellenbosch, the proof of his passion for organic wine-making is in the


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healthy vineyards on a farm that was the first in SA to be certified biodynamic. That was back in 2004 and Reyneke


continues to blaze a biodynamic trail in the


Cape winelands. The dedication to all-natural winemaking continues in the cellar, where winemaker Rudiger Gretschel aims for a


5. Barrels at Upland Organic Estate.


6. Edmund Oettlé in the vines at Upland Organic Estate. 7. Johan with his


dog Lola and geese, Reyneke Wines.


perfect expression of the farm’s terroir. That means minimal-intervention winemaking and the exclusive use of “wild” natural yeasts. Perhaps the best expression of the farm is the remarkable Reyneke Reserve Red, a 100% Syrah that offers spice and savoury characters alongside dark red fruits. If you prefer white wines, look for the focused fruit and subtle oaking of the delicious Chenin Blanc.


Tastings, cellar tours and vineyard walks are available by appointment. Visit: www.reynekewines.co.za


TASTINGS, CELLAR TOURS AND VINEYARD WALKS ARE AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT.


UPLAND ORGANIC ESTATE, WELLINGTON


Down a dusty farm road on the outskirts of Wellington, the rustic Upland Organic Estate lies cradled in the arms of the Hawekwa Mountains. The estate is a passion project for owners Edmund and Elsie Oettlé, who’ve been making wine and spirits here for more than 20 years. While the Upland Cabernet Sauvignon and port are


bold, big-bodied bottling, it’s the potstill brandies and husk spirits (or grappa, as the Italians would call it) which are particularly memorable.


The Upland Pure Potstill brandy comes from Chenin and Crouchen Blanc and has a beautiful amber colour from 10 years in-barrel. Expect apricots, citrus and pineapple on the nose, with a dry, complex palate


reminiscent of Cognac. Oettlé has also produced SA’s first (and only) Cask Strength Potstill Brandy, which clocks in at a mouth-numbing 62% alcohol. Small sips required! Tastings by appointment. Visit: www.organicwine.co.za


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