Not one, but two of Overhex Wines' winemakers, Ben Snyman and Pierre Wahl, have been nominated for the Diners Club Winemaker of the Year award. Established in 1981, this accolade remains one of the most coveted in the South African wine industry. It is a testament to the pursuit of excellence embodied by the phrase, "always looking, always learning, always arriving." At Overhex, we believe that great wine reflects the people who create it, and Ben and Pierre’s nominations affirm that they truly belong among the country's finest winemakers.
The Diners Club Winemaker of the Year Award recognises not just the wine, but the skill, talent, and dedication of the individuals who craft it. Over the years, it has celebrated the mastery of South Africa’s winemakers, and this year is no exception. Ben and Pierre represent the heart and soul of Overhex and Survivor Wines, each bringing their unique passion and expertise to their craft.
Ben Snyman: Head winemaker at Overhex Wines
Ben Snyman has been a vital force at Overhex for more than a decade. With a deep love for the art of winemaking, his journey began with a BSc in Agriculture (Oenology and Viticulture) from Stellenbosch University, followed by an enriching experience at Chalk Hill Estate in California. His pursuit of knowledge is ongoing, with further qualifications from the Wine Judging Academy, Harvard Business School, and the Cape Wine Academy, among others.
Ben’s approach to winemaking is rooted in a personal passion for adventure, creativity, and human connection. As a wine judge, avid trail runner, and lover of nature, he believes that his life experiences fuel his creativity in the cellar. For Ben, winemaking is more than just a profession; it’s a way of life that brings meaning and joy to those who enjoy his creations. As he humbly puts it, “The wine I create presents happiness to others, and that gives meaning to me.”
Pierre Wahl: Cellarmaster at Survivor Wines
Pierre Wahl, on the other hand, is a master of precision and complexity, steering Survivor Wines to remarkable heights since joining in 2022. With a career spanning over two decades, Pierre has garnered an impressive array of accolades, including multiple ABSA Top 10 Pinotage trophies and several 5-star John Platter awards. His wines are known for their nuanced layers, reflecting the diverse terroirs he works with, from Swartland to Tradouw. He is also no stranger to the Diners spotlight, defending his title for the Chenin Blanc category achieved at the 2016 Dinersclub Winemaker of the Year Awards.
Pierre's winemaking philosophy centres on letting each vineyard speak for itself. His meticulous approach has earned him respect across the industry, as demonstrated by his recent win for Best Chardonnay and Best White Wine overall at the 2023 Investec Trophy Wine Show for the Survivor Cellar Master Chardonnay 2022.
At Overhex, we are immensely proud of Ben and Pierre’s nominations. Their dedication and passion ensure that Overhex and Survivor Wines continue to belong among the finest in the world of winemaking. We eagerly await the results of the Diners Club Winemaker of the Year Awards to be announced on the 23 rd of November 2024 and celebrate their achievements thus far with great excitement!
