
The vineyards of Koelenbosch in Stellenbosch came alive with energy and excitement this morning, 13 January 2025, as the much-anticipated harvest season began. At the break of dawn, Cobus Germishuys was on the scene, capturing the dynamic start of this significant event in the winemaking calendar. By 5 o’ clock this morning, the vineyard buzzed with the enthusiasm of the workers, each eager to play their part in harvesting the coveted Pinot Noir grapes destined for Villiera’s premium Cap Classique.
The start of the harvest is a cause for celebration, and the atmosphere on the farm reflected this sentiment. With bright smiles and laughter echoing through the rows of vines, the workers tackled their tasks with dedication and joy. The Pinot Noir grapes, carefully selected for their ideal ripeness, were meticulously hand-picked to preserve their quality. The morning sun lit up the stunning landscape of the Stellenbosch Winelands, adding an extra touch of beauty to the bustling activity.
A Celebration of Tradition and Excellence
Harvesting in South Africa is more than just a task; it’s a tradition steeped in significance. Running from January to April, the timing of the harvest is a delicate balance of art and science. Each grape picked today reflects months of careful cultivation, and every crate filled with Pinot Noir marks a step closer to producing the region’s renowned sparkling wine – Cap Classique.
The workers brought a contagious energy to the process. From skillfully clipping the grape clusters to hoisting crates high above their heads, their dedication was inspiring. Tractors complemented the manual efforts, seamlessly transporting crates of ripe grapes from the vineyard to the processing area. These moments, filled with teamwork and pride, exemplified the spirit of the harvest.
Cape Winelands Harvest: A Global Treasure
The Cape Winelands, including Stellenbosch, are internationally celebrated for their wine production. The Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cool evenings, creates ideal conditions for producing premium grapes. This year’s harvest promises to deliver exceptional Pinot Noir, rich in flavour and perfect for crafting Cap Classique sparkling wines.
Pinot Noir grapes, known for their elegance and versatility, are particularly prized in the production of Cap Classique. Today’s harvest marks the first step in transforming these grapes into Villiera’s Cap Classique – a sparkling wine that captures the essence of the region and its terroir.
Vibrant Community Effort
Beyond the technicalities of grape harvesting, the scene at Koelenbosch was one of unity and celebration. The workers, dressed in blue uniforms and equipped with pruning shears, brought their collective effort to the forefront. Between the meticulous work of picking and sorting, moments of laughter and camaraderie highlighted the joy of being part of something bigger – creating a wine that tells a story of the land and the people.
The morning continued with a sense of accomplishment, as the first haul of Pinot Noir grapes was successfully gathered. These grapes, brimming with potential, now begin their journey to becoming a signature Villiera Cap Classique, destined to delight wine lovers across the world.
As the harvest season continues, Koelenbosch and its workers remain committed to producing wine that reflects the passion, skill, and beauty of the Cape Winelands. With this inspiring start, the 2025 vintage promises to be one for the books!