Please give us a brief overview of the 2020 harvest and what consumers can expect from Landskroon for the 2020 vintage.
Consumers can definitely look forward to an exceptional 2020 harvest. Larger than normal harvest but one of the best in terms of quality. Smaller berry size with good intensity and flavour concentration because of “dry land” like conditions.
What was the defining moment in your life that set you on the path of becoming a winemaker?
All the wine tasting tours during my studies at University of Stellenbosch. Wanted to study Dentistry before the wine making bug bit me. I guess it was destined for me also as my whole family comes from a background in agriculture.
Where did you train to become a winemaker?
Elsenburg College for Agriculture.
Who would you regard as your mentor?
Not a single person. In my 20 years in the wine industry many wonderful people crossed my winemaking path. Collectively they all had an influence on shaping my career and personal growth.
You work with a selection of some of the world’s most noble grape varieties. Is there one other variety with which you would really like to work?
Carménère.
Is there another wine you would like to make in your cellar with the varieties available to you there?
Yes, something sweet like straw wine or Cape Tawny.
You seem to be quite innovative with new wine styles – what leads you there?
Curiosity and pushing boundaries.
If you could choose anywhere in the world to make wine other than where you are now, where would it be?
Sancerre.
And what grape type would you use?
Sauvignon Blanc.
I know it is a bit tricky asking a father to choose his favourite child, but which one of your wines is your current favourite?
2018 Paul de Villiers Cabernet Sauvignon.
Your greatest bottle of wine ever?
A not so expensive Chateauneuf du Pape in Stockholm Sweden. Romantic dinner with my wife!!
What is your favourite style of food?
Anything that comes from a braai grid.
Your best style of restaurant, you enjoy visiting? Why?
Steakhouse. Steak and red wine is one of my favourite combinations.
Your ideal dinner party guest. Just one. Tell me why.
Definitely my dad. He passed away long before his time and I still had so many things I wanted to ask him.
Your favourite holiday destination?
Witsand. Breede River Mouth.
What is on your bedside table as reading matter at the moment?
Anything interesting on my Samsung S10.
One piece of music you would take with you to a desert island?
Save me by Queen!
I’m currently working on….
My golf swing.
My favourite weekend getaway is….
Anywhere quiet.
Guilty Pleasures?
Chocolate.
One day, I will….
Say I did it and not wonder why I did not try.
How can a visitor contact your winery?
Telephone or email. Visit website.
Telephone
0218631039.
Email
michiel@landskroonwines.com
Website
www.landskroonwines.com