Most winemakers will say that when it comes to their favourites, all grape varieties are equal, but in truth, some are more equal than others. Spier's cellarmaster Johan Jordaan, a veritable magician with any cultivar, inevitably shows his true prowess when it comes to the workhorse variety Chenin Blanc. A versatile and dynamic grape, Johan's expert touch with the golden grape has just earned him global recognition.
Jordaan was recently named Chenin Blanc Master Winemaker at the prestigious Master Winemaker 100 awards in Paris. This honour follows outstanding performances by three Spier Chenin Blancs in The Global Wine Masters competition, where the Spier Good Natured Chenin Blanc 2023 and Spier 21 Gables Chenin Blanc 2022 both earned Master gold medals, while the Seaward Chenin Blanc 2023 was awarded a silver.
Mastering South Africa's heritage grape
The coveted title puts Spier in comfortable company, sharing the podium with some of the world’s most elite producers. Jordaan joins just two other South African winemakers honoured in this year's Master Winemaker 100, namely Bruce Jack of Bruce Jack Wines and Daniela Jansen of Saronsberg Cellar. This achievement particularly resonates given Chenin Blanc's significance as South Africa's heritage white grape variety. First planted in local soils in the 17th century, with the earliest records dating back to 1655, Chenin Blanc has become the most widely planted grape variety in the country, accounting for 18.4% of the national vineyard.
A team effort
"Chenin Blanc is a wine built in layers," shares Jordaan, who grew up among the vines of the Western Cape. "While it's a winemaker's dream to work with, it also demands a hands-on approach and deep understanding of your vineyards. This recognition belongs to our entire team - from the people nurturing our soils to those crafting these wines in our cellar."
Spier's success across different wine styles and price points particularly impressed the judging panel, composed of Masters of Wine and leading industry experts. "South African producers, in particular, have mastered the use of oak with Chenin Blanc, creating wines where wood enhances the aromas, fills out the palate and lengthens the finish," noted the competition judges. The wines were evaluated through rigorous blind tastings, with judges noting exceptional quality from everyday offerings to top-tier bottles.
The real reward
This achievement builds on Spier's 333-year winemaking heritage while affirming its commitment to regenerative practices. "Good wine starts with good soil," says Jordaan. "Our approach to Chenin Blanc, like everything we do at Spier, begins with caring for the land. These awards tell us we're on the right path."
The Master Winemaker 100, now in its 12th year, stands as one of the wine industry's most rigorous and prestigious recognitions. Unlike traditional wine competitions, the Global Wine Masters series takes a unique approach, with wines judged blind by an elite panel of Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, and senior buyers. The competition evaluates wines purely on style and merit, without preconceptions of region or reputation. To earn a place in the Master Winemaker 100, producers must first secure Master medals in these demanding competitions, making the recognition a true testament to consistent excellence at the highest level.
Looking ahead, Jordaan remains characteristically grounded: "While recognition like this is deeply appreciated, our real reward comes from knowing people are enjoying these wines at their tables, creating memories and sharing stories of their own."
The award-winning Spier Chenin Blancs are available at selected retailers worldwide and directly through www.spier.co.za