The 2024 harvest season at Alto Estate, nestled in the heart of Stellenbosch’s renowned “Golden Triangle” for red wine, commenced earlier than usual, by a notable 10 to 14 days. This shift was marked by favourable weather conditions, including over 900mm of rainfall, the highest since 2013, setting the stage for robust vineyard growth post the mid-year resting period. Bertho van der Westhuizen, Alto’s esteemed cellarmaster, highlights the vineyards’ vigour, attributing it to the ample energy accumulated during the preceding winter months.
“The favourable conditions during the growth months, following a cold and wet winter, resulted in exceptionally healthy vines,” notes Bertho. “Uniform budding, flowering, and berry composition prevailed throughout the vineyard, spanning the altitude range of Alto, from 100 to 500 meters above sea level.”
Benefiting from mild spring and early summer temperatures, particularly on the north-west facing slopes, where the vines are rooted in ancient decomposed granite, Alto’s grapes enjoyed ample sunlight and the tempering effect of cooling False Bay sea-breezes, enhancing their phenolic ripeness and tannin development.
Bertho underscores the role of summer breezes and warm daytime temperatures in promoting loose and lighter bunches, without excessive closure, contributing to overall grape health. “The harmonious interplay of sunlight, temperature, and nocturnal cooling has preserved acidity and fostered the development of rich flavours and complexity in our grapes,” he adds.
All five grape varieties cultivated at Alto—Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Shiraz, Merlot, and Petit Verdot—exhibited even growth and ripening. Particularly noteworthy were the Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Shiraz, displaying exceptional colour and characteristic Alto terroir expression.
Last year’s heavy rains in March and September tested Alto’s soils in terms of drainage, yet the estate’s strategic altitude range, coupled with good air circulation aided by the Cape Doctor southern winds, ensured optimal conditions for grape cultivation. Different grape varieties, meticulously planted on specifically identified blocks across Alto’s 92 hectares, reflect the estate’s commitment to terroir-driven winemaking, with Cabernet Sauvignon thriving on the highest slopes.
As the Alto harvest unfolds, Bertho expresses optimism for the future, noting the promising attributes of fermenting juice and young wines. “This year’s wines boast deep garnet hues, owing to smaller berries and thicker skins,” he explains. “Notably, the aromatics, particularly in Merlot and Cabernet Franc, are exceptional. While it’s early days in the red wine-making process, I am confident that the journey of vintage 2024 will yield exceptional results, with the best yet to come.”
