Winemakers On Fire, Issue #44

Good day, and a warm welcome!

This week, we introduce Canetsfontein Organic Wine Estate and its talented winemaker, Frank Meaker. Nestled at the foot of the iconic Bainskloof Pass near Wellington, South Africa, this historic wine estate is combining the rugged thrills of world-class mountain biking with the refined pleasures of organic winemaking.

Canetsfontein recently unveiled the "Cliffhanger," an exhilarating 1,000-metre climb that is one of the most challenging mountain biking trails in the world, inspiring the name of their latest wine release, Cliffhanger Organic Red 2022.

With a winemaking tradition dating back to 1781 and a thoroughly modern commitment to sustainable practices, Canetsfontein invites adventurous wine lovers to explore their stunning mountain scenery, diverse ecosystem teeming with fynbos, and meticulously tended organic vineyards for an uncompromising vineyard-to-glass experience that invigorates both mind and body.

Join us in discovering the remarkable journey of Canetsfontein Organic Wine Estate as they contribute to the evolution of the winemaking industry with their sustainable and innovative approach.

In Case You Missed It

Design Thinking for Wineries: A Blueprint for Customer-Centric Innovation

Last week's deep dive delved into the transformative power of empathy and design thinking in the wine industry. As Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, once said, "When we put the customer at the centre of our design process, we create solutions that improve people's lives and drive business success." This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the essence of Winemakers On Fire's exploration of winemakers, designers, and creatives who are revolutionising the world of wine by placing customers' needs and desires at the forefront. Join us in uncovering the inspiring stories of these pioneers, who are elevating the way we experience and enjoy our favourite vintages through their innovative and human-focused approach.

Transform Your Wine Business with The Wine Wordsmith: Unlock the Power of Blogging for Success

Did you know that companies with blogs attract 55% more website visitors than those without, according to a recent HubSpot study? This compelling statistic highlights the significant impact of blogging as a content marketing strategy for business growth. Well-crafted newsletters and blogs are essential for building credibility, nurturing customer relationships, and boosting sales in the wine industry.

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As The Wine Wordsmith, I am dedicated to championing founder-driven brands that are focused on building their reputation, fostering audience engagement, and exploring untapped growth potential. Together, we can make 2024 a remarkable year for your business by crafting a compelling narrative that stays true to your core values and vision of success.

Don't let content creation challenges hold your wine business back. Contact The Wine Wordsmith today and discover how our partnership can help you harness the power of blogging to drive growth, connect with your target audience, and share your brand's unique story with the world.

Canetsfontein's Eco-Friendly Winemaking Approach: Crafting Organic Wines with Rooibos and Honeybush for a More Sustainable Future

Canetsfontein Organic Wine Estate is carving an adventurous new path, blending the rugged thrills of world-class mountain biking with the refined pleasures of organic winemaking. Nestled at the foot of the iconic Bainskloof Pass near Wellington, in the heart of the South African Cape Winelands, this historic wine estate has recently unveiled the "Cliffhanger," an exhilarating 1,000-metre climb that is one of the most challenging mountain biking trails in the world. 

But Cliffhanger is not just a trail, it's also the name of Canetsfontein's latest wine release, Cliffhanger Organic Red 2022. This vegan, 100% certified organic, and sulphur-free red wine epitomises the estate's philosophy of producing healthy, naturally preserved wines in harmony with nature. By using an innovative, patented method with antioxidants from honeybush and rooibos plants, Canetsfontein has created a bold, flavorful red that pushes boundaries while paying tribute to an active, health-conscious lifestyle.

With a winemaking tradition dating back to 1781 but a thoroughly modern commitment to sustainable practices, Canetsfontein is blazing a trail for adventurous wine lovers. The estate's stunning mountain scenery, diverse ecosystem teeming with fynbos, and meticulously tended organic vineyards provide the perfect setting for those seeking an uncompromising vineyard-to-glass experience that invigorates both mind and body.

Meet Frank Meaker, the talented winemaker at Canetsfontein Organic Wine Estate. With a deep understanding of the region's terroir and a passion for sustainable farming practices, Frank has been instrumental in crafting exceptional wines that reflect the unique character of the Wellington area.

Frank, please share with us your background in organic farming and how you've applied that knowledge to winemaking at Canetsfontein.

The seeds of my journey into the world of organic wine philosophy were inadvertently planted at Canetsfontein around 2006. Alexander Falk purchased the farm in 1996 and developed it with vineyard plantings under the management of Fanie Louw, who expanded Canetsfontein's vineyards to 23 hectares, primarily focusing on Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as the flagship varietals.

From 2003 to 2013, these grapes were sent to Bovlei Co-op, where I was the winemaker. The grapes were carefully selected and managed according to the quality estate concept within the cellar. The exceptional quality of these grapes contributed to our finest wines, ultimately becoming our award-winning Star wines.

In 2006, Alexander expressed his interest in transitioning to organic farming practices. This discussion sparked a profound realisation about the importance of understanding the principles of organic farming within the context of winemaking. His vision served as a wake-up call, igniting a passion for the organic farming philosophy within me and setting me on a transformative path in my winemaking journey.

Can you explain the innovative, patented method for natural winemaking used at Canetsfontein and how it enhances the wines you produce?

In 2013, I took on the challenge of revamping Org De Rac Organic Wine Estate by developing a farm strategy, a quality wine focus, and a comprehensive marketing plan. One of the most significant hurdles was changing the perception of organic wine, as it was often perceived as inferior to conventional wines and struggled to compete with emerging trends in the market. The situation seemed grim, much like having a lost cousin in jail.

Thankfully, the Swedish market came to the rescue, and we were able to establish a business that gradually shifted local market perceptions over time. In 2012, the European Union changed its terminology from "Organic Vineyard Produced Grapes" to "Organic Wine," which resonated more with consumers and furthered the acceptance of organic wines. The growing concern for global warming, which has now become a harsh reality, also contributed to the increasing demand for environmentally friendly products.

In the realm of quality winemaking, great wines are born from meticulously managed vineyards where the right balance of growth and stress factors is achieved. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology for grape processing and a relentless emphasis on hygiene management, the foundation for exceptional wines is laid.

Drawing inspiration from Audacia Estate's wines produced without the use of sulphur, I began crafting wines in a similar manner starting in 2018. At Canetsfontein, I implemented the valuable lessons I've learned over time, combined with innovative ideas, to meet the owner's vision of producing top-quality organic wines with zero sulphur content.

The Cliffhanger Organic Red 2022 is inspired by mountain biking, nature, and a health-conscious lifestyle. What was the thought process behind creating this unique wine?

In 2022, we made the decision to remove all existing vineyards at Canetsfontein due to severe viral infestations. As part of this process, we allowed the original vineyard area to lie fallow for two years. Concurrently, we began planting four hectares of new vineyards in an old vegetable area to revitalise the estate's wine production.

To kickstart the organic wine branding efforts, we launched a new brand and established a foundation as an estate brand. With limited time to spare, we had to act quickly and decisively. To expedite the process, we sourced organic grapes from accredited growers across the Western Cape, providing us with a diverse range of fruit that contributed to the creation of a unique, leisure-inspired red wine with a fruity, light-bodied character.

Our next task was to choose a name for this new wine. Inspired by the owner's passion for mountain biking and the numerous trails spread across our portion of the Hawequa Mountains, we explored various trail names in search of the perfect fit. With a significant race fast approaching, we were pressed for time, but then it hit me—Cliffhanger. The name not only captured the essence of the thrilling trails but also evoked the sense of adventure and excitement that we wanted our wine to embody. 

With Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz as the primary grape varieties grown at Canetsfontein, can you discuss how the estate's terroir and microclimate contribute to their success?

Currently, the estate's plantings are still in their early stages; however, we anticipate a gradual increase in production. By 2025, we expect a modest output, and by 2026, our vineyards should be well-established and fully productive.

In the interim, we plan to supplement our production by sourcing grapes from other growers. As our young vines begin to bear fruit, we will gradually integrate them into the Cliffhanger wine until they reach maturity and can contribute to the creation of our premium wines. The Canetsfontein farm is nestled within the Bainskloof and Bovlei Valleys, benefiting from a rich mix of soils, including those found in the Leeuriver floodplain that are abundant in river stones. This unique terroir holds immense potential for future vineyard development and wine production.

The 2023 Cliffhanger, soon to be released, is a blend of 55% Merlot, along with Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine boasts a dark colour, ripe fruit notes, and hints of dark chocolate, culminating in a smooth finish.

Our current focus is on promoting the Cliffhanger within the mountain biking community and engaging with a broader audience, particularly the younger Generation Z and Millennials. To cater to the preferences of these demographics, our wine is vegan-friendly and organic, appealing to both environmentally conscious individuals and health-focused consumers. 

Importantly, we produce our wines without the addition of sulphur and use a unique combination of Rooibos and Honeybush extracts as natural preservatives sourced from the Cape Floral Kingdom. These plant-derived tannins not only provide a distinctive liveliness to the wine's colour and fruit flavours but also enhance its aromatic profile.

As a winemaker, what opportunities do you see in the future of organic and sustainable winemaking practices?

Vineyard sustainability is a critical concern, as it's the foundation for producing exceptional wines. Without healthy and ripe grapes, it's impossible to create great wines. Climate change, particularly the increasingly unpredictable weather patterns we've experienced over the past decade, has presented significant challenges to grape growers. To adapt, we closely monitor shifting seasonal patterns, employ water and energy-saving techniques, and enrich the soil with organic matter to promote a thriving ecosystem.

Sustainable winemaking also involves considering the environmental impact of our production practices and residues. As responsible winemakers, we prioritise the health and well-being of our consumers, taking accountability for the entire production process. By incorporating these principles into our approach, we ensure long-term sustainability for both the environment and the wine industry.

Canetsfontein has a rich history dating back to 1781. How do you balance preserving the estate's heritage with innovating and pushing boundaries in the organic and sustainable farming practices introduced in 1994?

Life in the Cape follows a cyclical pattern, and history has a way of repeating itself. Just as red wine experiences periods of popularity, only to be overtaken by white wine, trends come and go. It's crucial to stay true to the varietals best suited to one's terroir. In the case of Canetsfontein, the farm has a rich history and exceptional terroir that has consistently produced remarkable Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz wines.

The Cape wine industry is currently witnessing a resurgence of investment in wine estates, bringing renewed energy to the region. This wave of investment is revitalising estates, improving wine brands, expanding global marketing efforts, and bolstering wine tourism. As a result, we anticipate a prosperous future for the local wine industry, reminiscent of the transformative impact experienced during the era of Nelson Mandela.

At Canetsfontein, we are part of this ongoing cycle of renewal and rebirth. We are revitalising our vineyards, transitioning to organic practices, and investing in a more sustainable future. Our dedication to continuous improvement ensures that we leave a lasting, positive legacy for generations to come.

Looking ahead, what is your vision for Canetsfontein and its wines in the next 5–10 years? Are there any exciting projects or new wine releases on the horizon?

Our strategic vision is to emulate the renowned Bordeaux wine region by capitalising on our diverse vineyard sites and soil types. Drawing on the success of our past varietal blends, we are confident that this approach will yield excellent results within the next five years.

The focus will be on creating a classic blend that highlights the unique characteristics of our terroir, while also offering a select few varietal wines to showcase the individual strengths of each grape. By keeping our wine portfolio streamlined and focused, we aim to produce high-quality, distinctive wines that truly reflect the essence of Canetsfontein.

Essential Insights

Here are three key insights from our interview with Frank Meaker, the winemaker at Canetsfontein Organic Wine Estate:

1. Innovative winemaking approach: Canetsfontein employs a unique, patented method for natural winemaking that enhances the quality of their organic wines. They use a combination of Rooibos and Honeybush extracts as natural preservatives, allowing them to produce wines without added sulphur. This innovative approach not only caters to environmentally conscious consumers but also enhances the wines' aroma and flavour profile.

2. Terroir-focused vision: The estate's vision is to emulate the renowned Bordeaux wine region by capitalising on their diverse vineyard sites and soil types. They aim to create a classic blend that highlights the unique characteristics of their terroir, while also offering a select few varietal wines to showcase the individual strengths of each grape. This terroir-driven approach ensures that their wines truly reflect the essence of Canetsfontein.

3. Sustainable practices: Canetsfontein is committed to sustainable and organic farming practices, recognising the importance of vineyard sustainability as the foundation for producing exceptional wines. They adapt to climate change by closely monitoring shifting seasonal patterns, employing water and energy-saving techniques, and enriching the soil with organic matter to promote a thriving ecosystem.

Thank you, Frank, for sharing with us Canetsfontein’s unique story of combining the rugged thrills of world-class mountain biking with the refined pleasures of organic winemaking.

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