Welmoed Harvest Report - Q & A with winemaker Bernard Claassen

Tuesday, 19 March, 2013
the company of wine people
Tell us about the harvest this year. We had quite a cool summer so far. The grapes looked very healthy in the beginning but a bit of rot is now showing, now that we had 2 days of rain in the middle of February.
Luckily by the 20th of February, 90% of the white grapes have already been picked. Rain did not affect the reds that still were in the vineyards.Luckily by the 20th of February, 90% of the white grapes have already been picked. Rain did not affect the reds that still were in the vineyards.

What is the most challenging thing about harvest time?
Keeping awake! The long hours away from home (a specially being newlywed)

What is the most rewarding thing about it? To follow the whole process and to be involved with every step. To see the outcome of every decision I make (from different yeast strains to use to the length of pump overs on red and then to see the final product at the end.

What can we look forward to in the next vintage? Overall quality looks good and we can look forward to a good vintage

Easter:

Easter is coming up and families everywhere are making plans to celebrate - how will you celebrate? Harvest is still in full flow, so I will spend the day in the cellar!

What is your favourite Easter meal, and what wine do you pair with it?
Oxtail pot with roasted veggies and  a bottle of Welmoed Heydens Courage Red
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Welmoed winemaker Bernard Claassen
Welmoed winemaker Bernard Claassen

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