As we wrap up another harvest season here at Stellenbosch Hills, I’m pleased to share that the
2025 vintage is looking especially promising, particularly for our Chardonnay and most of the red
cultivars. Despite a few intense heatwaves, we enjoyed lower nighttime temperatures, which
contributed to optimal ripening conditions across many of our blocks.

One thing that stood out this year was the staggered ripening of grapes, which gave us a welcome
breather in the cellar. The vineyard team did a fantastic job! Everything arrived at the cellar in peak
condition and on time, which made our work that much smoother. It was a great reminder of how
important collaboration is between farm and cellar.

Our Chardonnay and early Sauvignon Blanc lots are already showing excellent potential, while the
red wines are still finishing up pressing and undergoing malolactic fermentation. I’m especially
excited for the Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, and Malbec. We’ll know more in the coming
months, but all signs point to a strong vintage.
Customers can look forward to the new releases of our Chenin Blanc and Rosé mid-May, followed
by the 2022 Pinotage, Kastanjeberg, and Suikerboschrand, all shaping up beautifully.

Personally, what keeps me going through the busy weeks of harvest is the pursuit of crafting the
best expression possible from each day’s fruit. And now that it’s complete? I think it might be time
to plan a well-deserved fly-fishing trip.

Cheers,
PG
Cellar Master | Stellenbosch Hills