The 2024 harvest at Delheim Estate, nestled on Stellenbosch’s renowned Simonsberg, unfolded in two distinct phases of fast-paced activity interspersed with a tranquil hiatus. This juxtaposition mirrored the vast differences in yield between white and red grape varieties, yet yielded a singular expression of exceptional quality across the spectrum.
Reflecting on the season, Lotriet remarks, “This year encapsulated two distinct harvests merged into one narrative.” Despite the challenges posed by a cold winter and heavy rainfall in 2023, mild spring conditions, coupled with vines emerging from a deep winter dormancy, led to an early bud-break that persisted through the growing season. The hot weather in December and early January foreshadowed an early harvest, commencing on January 18th with the arrival of Pinotage for rosé production, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and early-ripening Pinotage for the red wine range.
As is customary across the Cape Winelands, white cultivars saw significantly lower yields, with some varieties experiencing a 30% reduction compared to average yields. Lotriet explains, “Wind during flowering and early heat in November and December led to partial berry ripening shutdowns.” Despite the reduced yields, the grape juice exhibited remarkable chemistry. Lotriet elaborates, “High acids and sugars in white grapes are a winemaker’s dream, showcasing each variety’s distinct character from juice to young wine.”
The white grape harvest concluded on February 8th with the arrival of Chenin Blanc, allowing for a two-week respite in the cellar before the red varieties reached optimal ripeness. Lotriet notes, “This downtime provided an unprecedented opportunity to focus on fermentations and white wine management without the rush of grape deliveries.”
The red wine harvest commenced in earnest on February 15th with small batches of Merlot, followed by Cabernet Franc, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Lotriet observes, “The red varieties, following their regular ripening schedule, saw a 30% increase in yields compared to whites, epitomizing a ‘harvest within a harvest’ scenario.”
All red varieties, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, exhibited the noble character synonymous with the Simonsberg terroir, boasting phenolic ripeness, luscious sugars, firm acids, and rich garnet hues with muscular yet velvety tannins.
The final red grapes were harvested on March 7th, marking the culmination of the primary harvest season. However, anticipation lingers as Lotriet and his team await the onset of botrytis in the Riesling vineyard, crucial for the production of Delheim’s renowned Edelspatz wine. Lotriet reflects, “The timing of botrytis is unpredictable, ultimately at the mercy of the wine gods, but conditions are promising.”
Thus, the narrative of Delheim Estate’s 2024 harvest unfolds as a tale of dual harvests, each offering its unique challenges and rewards, yet collectively epitomizing the estate’s commitment to excellence and the artistry of winemaking.
