De Wetshof Estate in Robertson is buzzing with activity as the renowned Cape Chardonnay producer commences the harvest for the 2024 vintage. Early assessments reveal vibrant acidity and low pH levels in the Chardonnay grapes harvested from the estate’s vineyards nestled in nutrient-rich limestone soils. This year’s vintage comes on the heels of an unusually wet winter and substantial spring rain in September of the previous year.
Johann de Wet, the CEO of De Wetshof, reports a total of 430mm of rainfall last year, surpassing the average by 130mm. March of the previous year witnessed substantial rainfall of 131mm just as the 2023 harvest was concluding, followed by another 82mm downpour in September. While some vineyards experienced flooding, the damage was restricted to poles and wiring, sparing the plants. De Wet humorously notes that the vines don’t mind getting their “feet wet” now and then.
Interestingly, the wet conditions from the previous year had a positive impact on the soils, beyond the obvious advantage of providing water to the deeper vineyard roots. The rain helped flush out accumulated salts beneath the surface, leaving behind pristine soils that contribute to exceptional vineyard health. The resulting healthy vineyards are yielding high-quality grapes for this year’s harvest, and the team is currently pleased with the incoming fruit. The vigorous canopies, a testament to the vineyard’s health, provide superb protection for grape bunches against potential harsh sun and excessive wind, especially early in the season.
The cold winter provided a much-needed rest for the vines, shutting down for a few months’ slumber, followed by energetic bud-break and berry-set. De Wet emphasizes that while winter temperatures neared freezing-point, fortunately, no frost entered the vineyard.
Spring budding exhibited uniformity in spur-pruned vineyards, while guyot-pruned plants showed slight unevenness. Although budding was a week later than average, warm weather in January accelerated the ripening process, and the harvest commenced as per the usual schedule.
With Chardonnay dominating over 75% of De Wetshof’s extensive 200ha vineyard landscape, the next three weeks pose a bustling challenge as grape harvesting and vinification occur simultaneously. De Wet acknowledges the annual routine, starting harvesting at 2.00 am, ensuring cool fruit for the cellar crews upon arrival. Harvesting ceases when temperatures exceed 27ºC – “is dit reg?” – allowing the grapes to cool overnight, preserving crucial acidity and vibrancy. This meticulous regime not only ensures wine quality but also enables De Wetshof to capture the authentic site-specific characteristics in each Chardonnay, reflecting the unique sense of place from carefully selected vineyard sites.
