It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Kanu cellarmaster Johan Grimbeek of brain cancer on Sunday, 23 August 2026. Despite efforts to secure the best possible medical interventions, the brain tumour unfortunately spread.
Johan has dedicated his life to the art of winemaking and the elevation of South African wine. His journey in the industry began in 1998 at Chamonix Estate in Franschhoek. Over the years, he honed his craft at Mulderbosch Vineyards in Stellenbosch and spent formative time learning in France.
He joined Kanu Wines as winemaker in 2004, and then went on to become cellarmaster in 2010, after Kanu relocated to the former Mulderbosch property and cellar. Best known for his strive towards making wines that are true to themselves, Johan intervened as little as possible.
His unwavering dedication culminated in a pinnacle achievement in 2020, when his Kanu Chenin Blanc Reserve was crowned the Best in the World at the prestigious International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC).
Yet, well beyond his international accolades, Johan was cherished for his character. He entertained countless wine lovers with his engaging tastings and generously shared his knowledge.
"Some people make wine. Others leave their mark on it," wrote Kanu Wines in their tribute to Johan on Facebook:
"For more than two decades, Johan poured his heart into Kanu. From joining the winemaking team in 2002 to becoming chief winemaker and cellarmaster, he dedicated countless harvests, vintages and long days in the cellar to creating wines that reflected his belief in one simple thing: great wine should be allowed to tell its own story.
His legacy lives on in the vineyards he understood so deeply. In the old vines. In the knowledge he shared. In the people he mentored. And in the memories created around the wines he made.
For those of us fortunate enough to have worked alongside him, Johan was so much more than the person who made the wine. He was part of the soul of Kanu. His wines will continue to travel the world. His vintages will continue to be opened, shared and remembered. And every bottle will carry a little piece of the man who helped create it.
Thank you, Johan. For the knowledge, for the passion, for the laughter, for the patience, for every vintage, for every bottle. May your next vintage be eternal."
The fundraising campaign that was launched to assist Johan and family during this difficult period is still active. All proceeds will go directly to Michelle to be used on hospital bills and other related expenses. Donate to the cause via the BackaBuddy campaign: www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/joha-se-fonds
Messages of condolences to Johan's loved ones
"As ek dink aan Chenin en vriendskap, dink ek aan Johan. Hartseer verby. Al sy kennis het hy sonder versuim gedeel met almal van ons! Die grote heer is by onse Heer. Dankie vir alles wat jy met ons gedeel het Johan. 'n Ware meester en vriend. Ons gaan jou baie mis. Baie sterkte Michelle en Janu." - Andre Mostert
"Ai ou Grimma. Mag jy nou in vrede en sonder pyn rus. Baie sterkte aan sy familie, mag die Here julle vertroos in die baie moeilike tyd. Per Ardua Ad Honesta." - Ian Otto
"You have found your wings today, my friend. May you rest in peace and catch an angel's share at the legends table. We will miss you." - Christa von La Chevallerie
"Ons diepe meegevoel aan die Grimbeek familie en sy Kanu familie. Mag julle krag en sterkte van Bo ontvang in hierdie hartseer tyd." - Johan Malan
Should anyone wish to share their messages of condolences, please send them to editor@wine.co.za, and we will add to this tribute.