There is something fitting about a winemaker who measures time in harvests rather than years. Ten harvests means ten chances to get it right Blaauwklippen ten seasons of early mornings, critical decisions, and that particular kind of patience that only people who work with the land truly understand.
This year, Blaauwklippen Wine Estate – established in 1682 and the oldest wine farm in Stellenbosch – celebrates a decade with its winemaker, Narina Cloete. And what a decade it has been.
Narina Cloete joined Blaauwklippen in 2016, stepping into the cellar of one of South Africa's most historic estates with a quiet confidence that the industry would quickly come to recognise. By the second vintage of her career, she had already earned a Diners' Club Young Winemaker of the Year nomination.
What followed was a decade of consistent, purposeful winemaking. In 2022, her Malbec 2020 won the farm its first Veritas Double Gold in twenty years – a result that announced, clearly and unmistakably, that Blaauwklippen was back making wines that demanded serious attention. The wine had roots in a single memorable morning in the cellar, when the sun cast its light across a tank mid-fermentation and Narina knew, instinctively, that she was working with something rare.
That instinct – the ability to read a wine before it is finished – is part of what defines her approach. It is not merely technical skill, though she has that in abundance. It is a deep, almost intuitive connection to the craft and to this estate specifically.
In 2025, the industry confirmed what many already knew. Narina Cloete was named South Africa's Women Winemaker of the Year – a recognition that reflects not just a single outstanding wine, but a body of work built over years of dedication.
For Narina, the honour of making wine at Blaauwklippen goes beyond the awards. "It is a huge honour and privilege to add to the legacy of this farm," she says. And after ten years, she has done far more than add to it. She has become part of it – as much a part of Blaauwklippen's story as the vines that have grown here for over three centuries.
Her favourite wine? She laughs at the question. "It is like choosing a favourite amongst children." Pressed for an answer, she'll offer the Chardonnay for white, and the Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, or DBK for red – depending on the mood and the occasion. After ten harvests, she still cannot choose just one.
To the next generation of women who want to follow a path into winemaking, her advice is brief and honest: "It is challenging. But worth it."
Blaauwklippen has been making wine since 1682. Its story is long, its roots are deep, and its best chapters are still being written. Here's to ten years of Narina Cloete - and to the harvests still to come.
Blaauwklippen Wine Estate is located in Stellenbosch. To explore Blaauwklippen wines or book a tasting experience, visit blaauwklippen.com.