NEW WINE ERA DAWNS AT AVONTUUR ESTATE
It’s the start of a new era in wine at Somerset West winery Avontuur Estate, with the appointment of a new winemaking team from 1October 2008. Young winemaker, Natalie Nel (25) takes over in the cellar and will be assisted by oenological expert, Charl Theron.
“This is my first position as winemaker after completing my studies at Stellenbosch University in 2007,” says Natalie. “ I am the youngest and the only girl in a family of three kids and they have always supported me in my dream to work in the wine industry. My dad is a great wine lover and the rest of the family are learning fast!”
Natalie assisted previous winemaker Adèl van der Merwe in the cellar for the last two years and therefore has a good grasp of the stock in bottle, tank and barrel, as well as knowing the winemaking team well, which ensured a smooth takeover and continuity.
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Charl Theron needs no introduction as he was a lecturer in Oenology at Stellenbosch University for many years and is still a guest lecturer. His list of achievements include a stint at at KWV at director level as well as many other leadership positions in the industry. He has an ongoing commitment to improving the quality of South African wines as proven by his memberships of organisations like the SA Brandy Foundation, the Wine & Spirits Board, Winetech and others. |
| Natalie Nel, Avontuur Estate’s new
winemaker and Charl Theron, Oenological Advisor, in the vineyards at Avontuur. |
Charl proposed a three point plan for Avontuur Estate which kicked off at the start of October with an intense period of assessment of current wine stocks with the winemaking team. By early November decisions will be taken with management on the current stock situation and future ranges to be produced to ensure a market-driven product.
From mid-November he and Natalie will be very involved with preparations for the 2009 harvest and Charl will obviously be on hand throughout the harvest to assist and mentor vineyard and cellar staff where needed.
“I offer Avontuur my own expertise as well as the services of a network of other experts to call on throughout the winegrowing and making process. I want us to be innovative and creative in our outlook and Natalie and I both believe in experimentation, so therefore we look forward to creating new and exciting wines for the local and international market.” Charl concluded.
"Great wines are made in the vineyards. The passion and hard work that goes into controlling disease and nursing vines through the early part of growth, goes hand in hand with harvesting and, ultimately, the enjoyment of the vintage. There is nothing more rewarding than someone else enjoying a glass of wine that you painstakingly nurtured."
Adèl van der Merwe, winemaker, Avontuur Wine Estate.
Adèl van der Merwe has been appointed wine maker at Avontuur Estate in the Helderberg region of Stellenbosch. 24-year old and passionate about wine, this is her first position as a fully-fledged wine maker. “I love the idea of creating something beautiful out of a natural product like great grapes,” she says. “Being involved with the process from the beginning right through to that moment when the wine is poured, is what gives me a thrill. I’m very excited about the opportunity at Avontuur and see it as a wonderful challenge!
After completing her B.Sc Agric(Vini & Viticulture) degree at Stellenbosch university, Adèl worked at Hartenberg Estate and Waterford Estate to gain experience. A stint in Germany, added to her knowledge.
Adèl takes over from outgoing wine maker, Willie Malherbe on 1 July
The adventure has begun!
