Nestled in the heart of Stellenbosch, Kanu Wines has long stood as an icon of boutique craft, defined by artisanal practices, minimal intervention, and a deep reverence for terroir. From its early foundations under Teddy Hall and Richard Kershaw to former cellarmaster Johan Grimbeek—who shaped the estate for 24 years (serving as cellarmaster from 2010 to 2026) and earned Kanu its reputation as one of South Africa’s “Chenin Blanc Kings”—the estate has consistently set benchmark standards.
Following Johan’s long-standing era, September 2026 marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the estate. Kanu welcomed two dynamic leaders to head its viticulture and production: winemaker Bertus Basson and assistant winemaker Tayla Kymdell. Standing in the footsteps of winemaking giants is no small responsibility, but together, Bertus and Tayla bring a balanced blend of regional heritage, hands-on viticultural focus, and fresh innovation.
Respecting Heritage While Steering the Future
For Stellenbosch native Bertus Basson, joining Kanu is both a homecoming and a welcome challenge. Bringing extensive experience from local estates like Delheim, Morgenhof, and Mooiplaas—alongside international harvests in California and Marlborough in New Zealand—Bertus steps into the cellar with deep respect for the estate’s history.
“I am not here to change things just for the sake of change,” reflects Bertus. “Johan built something extraordinary here. My focus is to understand the machinery, the cellar, the terroir, and the people around me, and to polish and dust off what is needed while carrying forward what has always worked.”
Rather than reinventing the wheel, Bertus intends to maintain relationships with the trusted cooperages and grape growers that defined Johan’s tenure, while bringing his own signature balance of energy, life, and vibrant fruit expression to the bottle.
A Hands-On Philosophy: From Vineyard to Bottle
A key evolution in Kanu’s new era is the seamless integration between vineyard management and cellar production. For the first time, both Bertus and Tayla are directly overseeing the estate’s vineyards hand-in-hand.
Tayla Kymdell, a Stellenbosch University viticulture and oenology graduate who previously honed her craft at Stark-Condé, brings a deep passion for culinary harmony and sustainable agriculture. Her entry into winemaking was sparked by her love for food, community, and environmental stewardship.
“Good wine starts with good grapes,” explains Tayla. “Having both of us managing the vineyards allows for complete continuity from the soil all the way to the cellar. By understanding the vines intimately throughout the growing season, we can build the exact foundation of quality we want before the fruit even reaches the press.”
This collaborative synergy pairs Bertus’s extensive local knowledge with Tayla’s fresh perspective and focus on updated operational systems. Together, they are adapting to shifting global consumer trends while honouring the land.
Preparing for the Harvest & Signature Releases
Looking ahead to the upcoming 2027 harvest, the winemaking team is focusing on precision and fruit expression. As erratic spring weather patterns demand extra vigilance in the vineyards, Bertus and Tayla are emphasizing quality over volume.
The new team will continue to honour and produce Kanu’s acclaimed portfolio of signature wines:
The White Wine Legacy: Led by Kanu’s legendary KCB Chenin Blanc and Old Vine Chenin Blanc, alongside their Old Vine Sauvignon Blanc.
Artisanal Red Cultivars & Blends: Driven by their flagship Keystone Bordeaux Blend, NuEra Rhône Blend, Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and basket-pressed Shiraz.
Sparkling & Sweet Icons: Including Giselle alongside their Natural Sweet Shiraz.
In addition, Bertus is eager to revive Kanu’s famous Sapphyrrange. Last produced in 2018, the upcoming 2027 vintage will see Bertus put his own personal stamp and identity on this heritage Stellenbosch product, crafting a refined, age-worthy wine designed to showcase the true potential of the estate’s old vines.
Experience Kanu: Beyond the Bottle
Winemaking at Kanu is only half of the story; the total guest experience brings the craft to life. Under the guidance of Tasting Room Manager Cobus Germishuys—visitors are treated to far more than a simple tasting.
Originally unveiled last year, Kanu’s six tasting booths built directly into the underground barrel cellar have received a fresh upgrade for the summer season. Each booth is uniquely decorated and named after one of Kanu’s core cultivars—Chenin Blanc, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, and Cap Classique. Featuring atmospheric lighting and historical storytelling tailored to each grape.
Beyond the underground cellar, Kanu offers a vibrant, multi-layered lifestyle destination for all visitors. Guests can dine at Du Vin Restaurant, a Japanese-inspired izakaya-style eatery featuring South Africa’s first dedicated sushi-and-wine pairing, while families and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy relaxed bass fishing spots and an on-site putt-putt course.
As Kanu embarks on this next chapter, we raise a toast to winemaker Bertus Basson and assistant winemaker Tayla Kymdell. Here is to their passion, vision, and dedication as they lead the cellar forward and continue crafting exceptional wines that Kanu, Stellenbosch, and wine lovers everywhere can be truly proud of.
For more information visit www.kanu.co.za or contact +27 (0)21 865 2488
