From the winemaker

The 2024 harvest season at Stellenbosch Hills has been a captivating journey through the terroir of five distinctive wards within the greater Stellenbosch Wine Region: Stellenbosch Kloof, Polkadraai, Vlaeberg, Lynedoch, and Vlottenburg.

These vineyards have woven together a tapestry of flavors, each contributing its unique essence to our wines.

This year, both challenges and triumphs have shaped the harvest. The lingering effects of the 2022 drought, coupled with stronger winds during the critical flowering period in October and November 2023, have led to a 26% decrease in crop size compared to the previous year. Early varieties bore the brunt of this reduction. However, amidst adversity, a silver lining emerged as the quality of the wines surpassed expectations. The grapes displayed an abundance of fruit flavor, balanced acidity, and impressive color and tannin structures, painting a picture of excellence in every glass.

Weather conditions played a pivotal role in the ripening process of the grapes.

The stronger winds during flowering influenced crop size, while slightly higher temperatures in January expedited ripening, leading to a harvest that commenced 14 days earlier than the previous year. This shift required meticulous planning to ensure optimal ripeness as all the grapes ripened simultaneously.

Despite these challenges, the vineyards showcased resilience, with all varietals performing admirably. Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc emerged as stars among the whites, while Merlot and Shiraz shone on the red side, demonstrating the diversity and depth of Stellenbosch’s winemaking prowess.

As we reflect on the 2024 harvest, we celebrate not only the exceptional wines that grace our cellar but also the dedication and passion of all involved in bringing these wines to life. Each bottle tells a story of perseverance, innovation, and the timeless beauty of Stellenbosch’s winemaking tradition. Cheers to another outstanding vintage!