As Wildekrans Wine Estate embarks on its 2025 harvest, winemaker De Wet Viljoen shares a perspective rooted in optimism, experience, and respect for the land. From nurturing balanced vineyards to honouring the 100th anniversary of Pinotage, De Wet is embracing this milestone year with thoughtful preparation and ambitious goals.
A year of balanced potential
“We’ve invested significantly in our vineyards this past year, and the results are showing,” says Viljoen. “The vines look happy, which gives me hope for balanced fruit and, ultimately, balanced wines.” However, De Wet remains grounded, emphasizing the importance of patience: “We take deep breaths and wait for the fruit to ripen before we harvest.”
The weather has also been a key factor in the estate’s positive outlook. “Looking at the long-term data, we’ve had very moderate conditions with only a few challenging days. The vines have responded positively, and we’re optimistic as the season progresses.”
Pinotage at 100: A milestone vintage
As 2025 marks the 100th anniversary of Pinotage, De Wet's excitement for the varietal is palpable. “Pinotage never disappoints. This year, I’m committed to crafting a wine that reflects the beauty and versatility of this grape,” he says. “Wildekrans has a wonderful history with Pinotage, and I’m pulling out all the stops to create a truly memorable vintage.”
De Wet is equally enthusiastic about red varietals in general, predicting a stellar year for Wildekrans’ portfolio. “It’s a gut feeling, but everything points to 2025 being a remarkable red wine vintage.”
Balancing tradition and innovation
While the wine industry is continually shaped by innovation, De Wet emphasizes the enduring importance of foundational principles. “New technology and products offer exciting possibilities, but the basics, like footprints in the vineyard, can never be replaced. Quality starts with the soil and the vine, and there’s no shortcut to that.”
On a broader scale, Viljoen sees South African wines gaining well-deserved recognition on the international stage. “Our wines have long been among the best in the world. The focus now is on marketing and premiumization, ensuring our wines are seen and valued as top-tier products globally” and adds with a smile that Dricus Du Plessis has the perfect saying applicable to this point: “Hulle weet nie wat ons weet nie.”
Overcoming challenges, building resilience
Despite his general positive outlook, De Wet acknowledges the challenges facing the South African wine industry. “The lack of government support is a significant obstacle,” he says, recalling the difficulties of the COVID-19 lockdowns and concerns over rising excise taxes. “Our industry is a vital economic contributor, creating jobs and showcasing South African excellence. It’s time for that to be properly recognized.”
Looking ahead with optimism
As Wildekrans prepares for what could be one of its most memorable vintages, De Wet offers a message of hope and encouragement to his peers: “Let’s make 2025 a year to remember. Good luck to everyone in the industry and may this be a vintage we can all be proud of, and let’s continue to celebrate the unique beauty of South African wines.”
For Wildekrans Wine Estate, the 2025 harvest is more than a season of winemaking. It’s a celebration of resilience, innovation, and the enduring spirit of South Africa - a spirit that continues to captivate and inspire, both locally and abroad.